The Power of Yoga

I’m sure you know that yoga offers a vast and diverse array of proven health benefits… But do you know what these remarkable benefits are? 

*Decrease Stress & Depression - Various studies have shown it can decrease cortisol secretion, the primary stress hormone that also influences levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter often associated with depression

*Relieve Anxiety - Research demonstrates a clear correlation between regularly engaging in yoga and reduced anxiety, likely due to its emphasis on being present in the moment and finding a sense of peace

*Potential Inflammation Reduction - Chronic inflammation can heighten the risk of pro-inflammatory diseases, such as diabetes & cancer. Research shows that yoga may reduce inflammatory markers in the body thus preventing such conditions

*Promote Heart Health - Although it’s hard to pin point the precise impact of yoga versus other key factors like diet, it undoubtedly minimises stress, a major risk factor for heart disease. One study found that participants over 40 who practiced yoga for 5 years had lower blood pressure and pulse rates than those who didn’t

*Better Quality of Life -  Yoga may help improve sleep quality, enhance spiritual wellbeing, improve social function and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with cancer. A study into how 8 weeks of yoga affected women with breast cancer found that the women had less pain and fatigue, amongst other positive effects

*Pain Reduction - Evidence shows that yoga can help reduce many types of chronic pain, especially carpal tunnel syndrome & osteoarthritis. Researchers also suggest that it may help stimulate the vagus nerve, which is linked to a reduction in migraine intensity & frequency

*Flexibility & Balance - Thanks to specific poses that target flexibility & balance

*Optimise Breathing - Yoga incorporates many breathing exercises, which could help improve lung function. Pranayama focuses on controlling the breath through techniques which may lead to increased vital capacity (a measure of the max amount of air that can be expelled from the lungs)

*Healthy Eating - Mindful eating encourages being present in the moment while eating ie. noting the taste, smell and texture of your food and noticing any thoughts, feelings or sensations you experience while eating. Since yoga places a similar emphasis on mindfulness, research shows that it could be used to encourage healthy eating behaviours

*Increase Strength & Endurance - Especially in combination with regular workouts. One study found that 12 weeks of practice led to improvements in endurance, strength and flexibility in 173 participants

Finding a small window of time to practice yoga just a few times per week can be enough to make a meaningful difference to your health… Namaste.