Benefits of Yoga
According to the American Osteopathic Association, maintaining regular yoga practice has several significant physical and mental health benefits.
Some physical benefits of yoga include:
- increased flexibility
- increased muscle strength and tone
- improved respiration, energy and vitality
- helps maintain a balanced metabolism
- weight reduction
- cardio and circulatory health
- improved athletic performance
- protection from injury
Yoga is also great for stress management. The effects of stress can seriously impact one's body and mind. According to Mayo Clinic, "stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior." Some signs of stress on the body are:
- Headache
- Muscle tension or pain
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
Here are some signs of stress in one's mood:
- anxiety
- restlessness
- lack of motivation or focus
- feeling overwhelmed
- irritability or anger
- sadness or depression
The great news is that yoga can alleviate these signs/symptoms by helping one develop coping skills and gain a more positive outlook on life. Yoga's practice of meditation and breathing can improve someone's well-being. Yoga can also relax the mind.