The Health Benefits of Yoga
For more than five thousand years, millions of people have practiced the art of yoga. Most people think of yoga as just stretching or meditating, however there is much more to this type of exercise.
While there are a few variations in the styles of yoga practiced, one thing remains constant: the health benefits of yoga are many. One of the most important benefits is increased flexibility. Coincidentally, this is the one reason people tend to shy away from yoga as well. Some people think they are too old, not physically fit enough, and lack the flexibility to properly practice yoga. This could not be farther from the truth. No matter what your physical condition, yoga can improve flexibility by safely stretching the muscles. This gentle process releases a chemical known as lactic acid. If lactic acid is built up in the body (not released) muscle pain, tension, fatigue, and stiffness can occur. Releasing this chemical coupled with this form of exercise results in more fluid movements, and better lubricated joints. With increased strength, better posture is also achieved. The various standing and sitting positions help to strengthen the core muscles thus allowing the body to stand taller and to be carried more properly.
In addition to increased flexibility, yoga provides strength and stamina benefits. Many of the standing poses help to build strength in the abdominal muscles, hamstrings, and quadriceps. The “Chair Pose” and “Upward Dog” help to strengthen the lower back muscles. The “Upward Dog” along with “Downward Dog”, and the “Plank Pose” help to build up the upper body muscles, which become vital as people age.
Yoga also involves learning proper breathing techniques. The deep, emphasized breathing that is practiced with each pose helps to increase lung capacity. These breathing techniques also assist in engaging the body’s natural relaxation responses. Stress causing hormones are stopped in their tracks, and positive hormones such as oxytocin, dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine are released. These hormones are attributed to happy feelings, calm sensations, and the feeling of trust. This leads to lower stress levels, a more calm feeling, and better concentration and overall mood.
Finally, recent studies have linked yoga to heart health. Long known to help lower blood pressure, yoga is now thought to have a positive effect on heart disease. This is due in part to the fact that yoga lowers the heart rate, which in turn lowers blood pressure and lessens the risk of strokes and heart disease. One such scientific study even used yoga as a main component of a heart disease treatment program and found the practice somewhat reversed damage caused by the disease.
From better concentration and memory, to better physical health, yoga can be a very beneficial tool. No matter what your reasons for deciding to learn this ancient practice, yoga is a safe exercise program that anyone of any age can enjoy.
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