The benefits of yoga go far beyond improving flexibility. A strong and flexible body, peace of mind, good health, even weight loss. It sure pays to hit the mat and benefits of yoga are immense.
Recent research shows that far from being a simple system, the complexity of yoga and its many asanas can keep us away from major health ailments and issues.
If done regularly, yoga can:
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Improve cardiovascular health
Regular yoga therapy induces relaxation in the blood vessels, reduces blood pressure and increases blood flow to the heart muscle.
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Cut cancer risk
If there’s a history of cancer in the family, join a yoga class. This may prevent the genetic mutation from expressing.
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Control diabetes
Yoga is supposed to increase agni, the digestive fire. It helps improve digestion, which in turn improves blood sugar levels.
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Reduce neck and low-back pain
Regularly practicing good postures can straighten your slouch and may help curb chronic neck and low-back pain.
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Reduce stress
Recent research has linked yoga to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, especially in women at risk for mental health problems.
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Lessen depression
A recent study showed that women with postpartum depression saw a significant improvement after eight weeks of yoga.
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Sharpen the brain
Focused breath means maximizing oxygenation, and movement increases blood flow to brain and body. Sharp brains, for sure.
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Reduce PMS
Researchers have found that women who practiced yoga during a few days of their menstrual cycle were more relaxed and peaceful.
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Improve intuition
Yoga and meditation help improve and hone intuitive ability. You begin to realise what needs to be done, when and how, for positive results.
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Increase energy
A few minutes of yoga can leave you fresh, recharged and energetic even after a long day.
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Improves immunity
The many asanas strengthen muscle while breathing techniques and meditation help release stress and improve immunity.
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Lengthen lifespan and youth
A yoga-based lifestyle can help erase some signs of aging. It is also known to prevent several lifestyle-related diseases caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.
Apart from these benefits of yoga, yoga leaves you feeling really good. Isn’t it time you signed up for a session?
Written by Pragya Bhatt
For Pragya, yoga isn’t just exercise. It’s a way of life, one by which a person can attain a flexible and supple body and mind.
With a B.Tech in computer science & engineering from Punjab Technical University, Pragya’s decision to teach yoga grew from a personal goal to deepen her own practice. She quit her day job to take her learnings to others. She believes that practicing yoga has brought balance to her life, and she wants HealthifyMe users to experience the same. How can she help accomplish that? By being creative, says Pragya.
Of the opinion a balanced lifestyle equals healthy living, Pragya recommends you work out first thing in the morning and meditate right before going to sleep. And while self-motivation can pose a challenge for most yoga practitioners, Pragya assures she will be watching your every move.
i have been doing yoga from past three months.initially i was reluctant doing it but after listening all the good things about it, i started doing head stand in the morning.I used to be for about one to two minutes earlier and now i can do that for about 6 minutes. doing that i can feel lot of difference, it increases blood flow to your head and eyes and now i never miss a day of not doing head stand.
Very inspiring article! It was definitely worth stopping by!