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... By Karli Taylor
Yoga has been practiced for more than 5,000 years, and currently, close to 11 million Americans are participating in regular yoga practice. If you are not a part of this growing trend, you may be after you read about all of the benefits that you can enjoy as a result of regular yoga classes. From better posture to stress reduction, there are perks that even the biggest skeptic can’t deny.
A visible change that results from regular yoga practice is improved posture. Most standing and sitting poses develop core strength. That's because you're counting on your deep abdominals to support and maintain each pose. With a stronger core, you're more likely to sit and stand with better posture. The heightened body awareness that comes from yoga also tells you more quickly when you're slouching or slumping so you can adjust your posture.
Because of the deep, mindful breathing that yoga involves, lung capacity often improves. This in turn can improve sports performance and endurance. Though yoga typically isn't focused on aerobic conditioning, taking a yoga class that gets you breathing more mindfully can provide an aerobic benefit.
Many people turn to yoga for stress reduction. Most forms of yoga emphasize deepening and lengthening your breath which stimulates relaxation responses in your body. Even beginners tend to feel less stressed and more relaxed after their first class. Some yoga styles use specific meditation techniques while others depend on deep breathing techniques to focus your mind on the breath. Both techniques help to quiet the “chatter” that goes on in our heads.
Among yoga's anti-stress benefits are a number of biochemical responses. For example, there is a decrease in stress hormones which creates a feeling of calm. Some research points to a boost in the hormone oxytocin, the hormone that's associated with feeling relaxed and connected to others.
Perhaps one of the most studied areas of the health benefits of yoga is its effect on heart disease. Yoga has long been known to lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate. A slower heart rate can benefit people with hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
Ready to roll out your mat and give it a try?
Om..
