Years ago, doing yoga was considered to be a highly feminine activity strictly limited to those on the outer fringes of society. Nowadays, yoga is mainstream. As we learn more about the power of yoga, it becomes increasingly clear that this low-effort exercise provides an incredible array of mental benefits as well as physical benefits. Let’s examine the top ten reasons why everyone should start practicing yoga.
1. Yoga Improves Flexibility and Balance
Most of us sit in office chairs for an extended period of time, regardless of whether we are at work or at home. The average person spends much less time on his feet as he ages. The result of this sedentary behavior is a decrease in balance and flexibility. Regular yoga has the potential to reverse these shortcomings or at least slow their onset.
2. Yoga is a Surprisingly Good Workout
If you were to ask active people if they would rather run a couple miles or practice yoga, most would opt for yoga. Though yoga doesn’t get the blood pumping like an intense run, it promotes weight loss, especially for those in their 40s and 50s.
3. Yoga Boosts Your Strength
Yoga is a true full-body workout. It engages all sorts of different muscles, from the calves all the way up to the biceps. So put down those weights at least once per week and substitute in a yoga session. You’ll probably enjoy your yoga session so much that you end up practicing yoga several times per week.
4. Yoga Lets You Chill Out
Engage in some yoga exercises and you will feel considerably less stressed. Numerous studies have shown that those who engage in yoga enjoy lower blood pressure and significantly less stress. There is also mounting evidence that yoga decreases the intensity of mental health ailments like anxiety.
5. Yoga can Sharpen Your Mental Prowess
Yoga is an all-natural means of improving your mental clarity and focus. According to Runner’s World, yoga has the potential to heighten brain function and even improve one’s post-workout reaction time.
6. Yoga Combats Migraines
A study conducted in 2007 found that migraine sufferers who participate in yoga enjoy fewer intense headaches.
7. Yoga Decreases Pain
Yoga is an excellent alternative to pain medications. It can mitigate nasty knee pain, back pain, shoulder pain and beyond. According to researchers at Harvard Medical School, yoga even has the potential to reduce chronic pain.
8. Yoga Improves Sleep Quality
Would you rather pop sleeping pills or enjoy a yoga session? Most would opt for the latter. Studies show that yoga wards off insomnia, calms the mind and generally improves sleep.
9. Yoga Improves Your State of Mind
Numerous studies have found that regular yoga practice results in a more positive outlook.
10. Yoga can Boost Your Sex Life
Are you on the prowl for a way to improve your love life? Yoga might be the answer. Studies show that yoga has the potential to boost sexual satisfaction for men and women.