The Human Yoga Project Brings Blue Zone Philosophies to Athens, Georgia

ATHENS, Ga., Dec. 12, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Zones are areas of the world where residents practice wellness habits shown to increase life expectancy by up to 10 years, develop 1/6 the rate of cardiovascular disease and have 1/5 the rate of colon and breast cancer. Americans' fast paced lives and stress levels have resulted in rising obesity, diabetes and chronic diseases, as well as, increasing healthcare costs; the world's highest at nearly $3.2 trillion dollars annually or 16% of GDP.

How can Americans adopt Blue Zone philosophies? 

A local group researched methods of developing a healthy lifestyle in human beings throughout the world, and The Human Yoga Project was born. By incorporating Blue Zone philosophies locally, the Human Yoga Project aims to make practice simple so students can experience health benefits regardless of their level of health.

Dr. Subodh Agrawal, renowned cardiologist and owner of Athens Heart Center and Specialty Clinics, recognized an opportunity to bring Blue Zone philosophies to Athens, Georgia. The Human Yoga Project's partners include, Traci Jo Lee, Yogi expert and entrepreneur, as well as, Tom Camp, local Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Yoga Therapist.

"Our focus is to increase longevity and live a healthier more connected lifestyle while reducing healthcare costs and improving quality of life," said Dr. Agrawal. Practice starts with individuals bringing Blue Zone principles into their homes first and then into their workplace and community.  Dr. Agrawal offers free yoga classes to all his employees and time to work on these principles throughout the day. He believes that by bringing the yogi lifestyle to his employees, he will improve work efficiency and bring mindfulness into their daily lives.

"The Human Yoga Project's mission is to simplify the practice of yoga, and to educate and mobilize our population through yoga," said Traci Jo Lee. "By yoga students becoming yoga teachers, we start a ripple effect that makes an impact locally and then continues to spread its reach."

Future plans include training students on habits that connect Blue Zone communities including, a plant-based diet, a high level of social engagement, family time and practicing daily meditation.

For information about The Human Yoga Project, contact Dr. Subodh Agrawal at 706-308-7099 or via email at [email protected].

SOURCE Athens Heart Center and Specialty Clinics