Yoga has many physical and mental health benefits. There are more than 100 different types of yoga that can be performed in your home, outside, or in a studio. Yoga incorporates breathing, meditation, and stretching, which are all very beneficial for the body. Yoga keeps your body and minds healthy and happy.
The good thing about Yoga is that anyone, any age can participate. There are easy, medium, and hard levels of yoga, making it more accessible. The good news is, there are modifications for every yoga move. These modifications make certain moves easier for those who are not as flexible or can’t quite get to that tough pose. With yoga, your body stretches and over time you will become more flexible. At first you may not be able to achieve that perfect “pretzel” position, but just wait a few months and before you know it you’ll be an expert in that “pretzel” position.
Personally, I have started doing yoga and have noticed a huge difference in my body and my flexibility. Also, on those days where I am super sore, I throw in a quick little yoga routine, and immediately after, I feel more relaxed and stretched out.
Physical Benefits
- Increased flexibility
- Increased muscle strength and tone
- Improved respiration, energy and vitality
- Maintaining a balanced metabolism
- Weight reduction
- Cardio and circulatory health
- Improved athletic performance
- Protection from injury
I don’t know about you, but all these physical benefits make me want to go grab my yoga mat right now and get in a quick yoga session!
Mental Benefits
- Stress management
- Positive outlook on life
- Develop coping skills
- Clarity and calmness
- Increases body awareness
- Relaxes the mind
- Centers attentions
- Sharpens concentration
Overall, yoga has many benefits that improve our physical and mental health. Just 10 minutes a day for a week will give you amazing results. Yoga can be used as a calming exercise or can be used as an intense exercise as there is a wide variety of yoga exercises. So, what do you say? Let’s get our yoga mats and start doing some yoga!
Written by Julianna Garcia with contributions from www.osteopathic.org
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