The benefits of yoga

Yoga originated between 2,500 and 5,000 years ago in India before spreading worldwide. In fact, yoga is now the second most searched fitness mode in the world, according to Google Trends. 

But is yoga more than just a fitness trend?

It would seem so. 

From improved health and sleep to better mood and focus, yoga offers a wealth of benefits that can enhance your wellbeing. Specifically, yoga can:

1. Improve your heart health

According to the American Heart Association, practising yoga regularly can lower your blood pressure, slow your heart rate, and lower your cardiovascular risk factors, such as triglycerides and ‘bad’ cholesterol levels. These changes can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

2. Combat inflammation

Research shows that yoga can lower inflammatory markers, making it a suitable exercise for individuals with inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. There also appears to be a dose-response relationship, meaning that longer and more frequent sessions lead to greater anti-inflammatory benefits.

3. Lower stress

When you’re experiencing stress, your body produces a stress hormone called cortisol. Practising yoga regularly can lower cortisol levels.

4. Improve your mood

One study reported increased serotonin levels (a hormone that regulates mood) after a 12-week yoga intervention. This research suggests that practising yoga regularly can help combat poor mood and promote feelings of happiness.

5. Enhance your focus

Unlike many other physical activity types, yoga requires concentration and focus. Over time, yoga can improve your attention span and help you remain focused on your day-to-day tasks. 

6. Improve digestion

Yoga practices that involve twisting and bending are particularly beneficial for your digestive system. Numerous studies have reported improved digestion following yoga, including increased micronutrient absorption, relieved symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, and relieved symptoms of indigestion. 

7. Increase your flexibility

Many yoga postures focus on stretching and lengthening your muscles, making you more flexible and less prone to injury. 

8. Promote better sleep

Yoga practices that involve deep breathing and gentle stretching can promote relaxation, helping your body and mind prepare for a restful night’s sleep.

9. Improve your posture and balance

Many of us spend hours hunched at a desk each day. Yoga helps strengthen your core, which can improve your posture and reduce back pain. Improved balance can also lower the risk of falls and injuries, especially in older populations.

10. Strengthen your bones

Some yoga postures, such as Warrior II, are isometric (your muscles contract but don’t shorten). Holding these positions can increase bone mineral density at the involved bony sites. One study even showed that 12 minutes of yoga daily reduced bone loss in the spine and femur in individuals with osteopenia and osteoporosis. 

Despite its ancient history, it’s clear that the benefits of yoga are still relevant and valuable today. If you’re already a seasoned yogi, continue doing what you’re doing. For the