Yoga: Ancient Practice, Modern Benefits for Mental and Physical Health
Updated: Jun 20, 2024
Yoga, a discipline with a 5,000-year history, embodies peace and tranquility. Derived from the Sanskrit word “Yuj,” meaning to join or unite, yoga aims to harmonize physical and mental disciplines.
In the U.S., around 11 million people benefit from yoga, experiencing improvements in flexibility, strength, posture, breathing, concentration, and cardiovascular health, along with reduced stress and positive effects on various medical conditions.
Yoga's adaptability makes it suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with modifications available for physical limitations. The earlier you begin, the more benefits you reap.
Why Yoga Makes Us Feel Good
Recent studies reveal that yoga positively affects brain chemistry. Practicing yoga increases GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) levels, a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve impulses in the cerebral cortex, leading to relaxation and improved mental clarity. MRI scans show a 27% increase in GABA levels after yoga, compared to reading or walking. This surge in GABA reduces anxiety and stress, making yoga a recommended treatment for chronic anxiety.
An Old Practice with Newly Discovered Benefits
Yoga, rooted in ancient hunting practices, offers modern benefits even for today's less active lifestyles.
Flexibility: Stretching in yoga releases lactic acid from muscles, improving flexibility and joint lubrication. A study found significant flexibility improvements after just eight weeks of yoga.
Strength: Yoga poses, held correctly, enhance muscle tone and strength. Core strength built through yoga aids in preventing back issues, improving balance, and maintaining good posture.
Posture: Yoga counteracts the poor posture caused by sedentary activities, promoting core strength and balance.
Breathing: Deep, mindful breathing in yoga enhances lung function and oxygen levels in the blood, supporting the brain and vital organs.
Stress Relief: Regular yoga practice lowers stress hormone levels and increases oxytocin, enhancing trust and bonding while reducing depression.
Mood: Yoga participants often report feeling happier and more content post-practice, contributing to its popularity.
Cardiovascular Benefits: Yoga lowers blood pressure and heart rate, boosting the immune system and reducing cholesterol and triglycerides.
Other Medical Conditions: Yoga can help manage conditions like asthma, back pain, arthritis, insomnia, and multiple sclerosis.
Memory and Learning: The focus and discipline of yoga improve memory, learning, and overall productivity.
While yoga requires learning proper form to avoid injury, its benefits far outweigh the risks. Always consult with a doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.
Yoga, practiced for centuries, continues to offer remarkable benefits. Explore a local studio or start with a yoga DVD to begin experiencing these advantages.
Comments