You’ve most probably heard people sing the praises of yoga, especially as it’s a hobby that more and more people are taking up. The great thing is, that there are multiple benefits of practicing yoga, and it doesn’t matter what you weigh, your gender or how old you are – regular practice can truly be life changing. Today, we’re going to look at the top 10 most incredible benefits of yoga, and how it can help make a difference in your life, and with September being National Yoga Month, there is no better time to go check out a local class!
Reduces Stress
In today’s world, so many of us are constantly on the go, working hard and taking care of our families and this can put a huge amount of pressure on us as individuals. Stress is a direct result of this, and if left to fester, can have some extremely detrimental effects on our health. Yoga promotes relaxation and helps to release the tension in your muscles, which will leave you feeling calmer and ready to unwind.
Increases Flexibility
It might take you a year or two before you see huge results, but you’ll notice that your flexibility is improving fairly quickly. This is especially good for office workers or those who spend a large portion of their day sedentary. By keeping the spine active and flexible, it will help prevent injury later on.
Improves Digestion
One of the more surprising benefits, a consistent yoga practice that particularly focuses on incorporating twists and deep breathing can help stimulate your abdominal organs and encourage the liver and detox system to rev up.
Acts as a Natural Pain Reliever
If you suffer from chronic pain, like back pain for example, then next time you need some relief, try some yoga instead. Studies have shown that the yoga breathing techniques promote oxygen circulation in the body, which works with the meditative elements of the practice to sooth aches and pains.
Increases Strength
It might be a million miles away from strength training at the gym, but yoga poses can help you build up muscle and strength by constantly work all your muscles, rather that just one set. Using your body weight, you’ll find that not only will your muscles grow, but they will also take on a sleek and lean appearance.
Great for Heart Health
Yoga can help in reducing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, blood sugar, and reducing heart failure symptoms. The deep breaths in yoga slow down the rate of breathing, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing stress on the nervous system.
Boosts Endurance
With the deep breathing (that enhances lung capacity) and the fact you will be more flexible, this means less tension in your muscles and joints so you can run, cycle and enjoy sports for longer.
Aids Weight Loss
Yoga allows you to connect better both with your mind and your body, which will often lead to you making healthier choices when it comes to diet and lifestyle, and this added mindfulness could help you lose weight.
Helps with Circulation
The breathing, poses and stretching associated with yoga can help increase blood circulation around the body. This, in turn, is beneficial for a well-functioning body, helping to aid the metabolism, increasing energy levels and general vibrancy.
Relieves Depression
Because yoga works with both the mind and body in line with each other, it often helps alleviate the symptoms of depression. The deep breathing creates calm with in the body and a chance to reconnect with the self, and the cardiovascular elements of the practice encourage the release of endorphins, which is what makes you feel great after a workout.
Give yoga a try to experience all of the wonderful benefits it has to offer. And be sure to supplement your yoga routine with regular chiropractic care to keep your body in tip-top shape.
Yours in Health,
Dr. Susan Knight-Nanni