The Benefits of Yoga
Why Practice Yoga?
According to a survey published in 2016, over 36 million Americans practice yoga and over 300 million worldwide.
The most popular reasons for starting yoga are relief from stress and increased body flexibility.
There are other benefits as well, including moving, stretching, strengthening, and reducing pain.
Many of us rely on our human “autopilot” to accomplish several things at the same time. Practicing yoga brings more awareness not only to your physical body but to your mind as well. Having more awareness gives you the ability to focus on your current task, thus increasing your productivity.
Improved sleep is also a primary benefit of practicing yoga. It has been my experience that doing a few yoga poses before retiring helps me to fall asleep more easily. Also, starting my day with a few poses helps to work out body stiffness from being in one position all night long!
Other benefits include:
- Reduced headaches
- Prevention of back pain and pain reduction
- Improved balance and mobility
Some Further Research
According to the National Institutes of Health scientists, the usual age-related declines in the brain’s gray matter are slowed down when practicing yoga. In addition, those who practice yoga tend to have a larger volume in the brain regions that are responsible for emotional regulation and memory.
Researchers in Norway analyzed blood from 10 volunteers before and after a two-hour yoga and breathing practice. It was noted that there was a significant boost in the participants’ immune system.
Are there risks when practicing yoga?
Yoga generally is a safe form of physical activity. As with all physical activity, some injuries may occur. Sprains and strains are the most common injuries. However, yoga is much safer than high-impact physical activities. Avoiding extreme poses such as headstand, shoulder stand, and lotus pose reduces the risk of injuries.
Understanding the principles of stretching will help you avoid muscle strain. Most think that over-stretching will increase flexibility but usually it only results in straining the muscle. To get the most benefit from stretching, go to the point where you feel a little bit of a stretch, then stretch a little beyond pausing there.
Optimal alignment is also an essential part of yoga practice and helps prevent back pain. Understanding anatomy is not absolutely necessary to safely practice yoga, but practicing with a qualified instructor’s guidance and watchful eye are essential.
When working with students in my group classes, I take time at the beginning of the session to ask for updates on injuries and medical conditions that might affect movement. Then each session is customized to accommodate individual circumstances. Additionally, modifications are offered throughout because everyone has different levels of ability. Private sessions begin with an ‘update’ and a ‘review’ of each client’s goals as well.
When teaching, I often say, “Do what you can do. If something doesn’t feel right for YOU, just don’t do it!”
If you have not tried yoga, take the time to explore the practice and its benefits.
Remember, there are endless new adventures to experience!
If you would like a private online yoga session, send me a message or call (973) 476-8661.
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It’s never too late to try something new.
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