Benefits of Yoga
All yoga postures and breath work affect not only the musculoskeletal system of the body, but also the physiological and energetic systems of the body such as the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, and pranic (breath) systems. Yoga postures also affect the functioning of the organs and of the mind influencing everything from the digestion of our food to how we think and feel on a daily basis.
The practice of yoga is particularly beneficial in its emphasis on cultivating mindfulness. Through mindfulness we become aware of deeply rooted habitual patterns in the way we use our bodies and the ways we think and relate to ourselves and the world around us. By becoming aware of these habits and patterns we have the opportunity to make a choice: We can continue to live unconsciously out of old patterns or live more consciously in ways that allow us to try new experiences and expand into different ways of living and relating. Yoga practice provides a context and supportive environment for exploring new ways of learning how to relate to our experience and to others.
Physical Benefits
- stimulates synovial fluid to keep joints healthy
- increases muscular strength and flexibility
- builds core strength
- enhances immune system functioning
- enhances breathing
- increases sensation and sensitivity in the body
- offers relief from pain and chronic discomfort
- detoxifies the body
- stimulates blood and lymph flow
- cultivates coordination and balance
- stretches and elongates the spine
- reduces stress & tension in the body
- tones the nervous system
- teaches alignment and correct use of body mechanics decreasing risk of injury
- cultivates freedom of movement and stamina for daily tasks and life demands
- improves posture
- promotes optimal functioning of the organs and glands
- lowers blood pressure and relaxes heart
- reduces fatigue/alleviates insomnia
- inversions reverse the effects of gravity on the body
- fosters physical and emotional healing
- promotes overall vitality and energy for living
- prepares the body and mind for meditation
- cultivates concentration and mindfulness
Mental & Emotional Benefits
- stress & tension release
- promotes relaxation
- begins to dissolve old habits and patterns of thinking
- counteracts depression and mental lethargy
- promotes stabilization and balance of emotions
- enhances ability to focus/concentrate
- increases awareness and mindfulness
- enhances body and breath awareness
- reduces fatigue
- some postures actually “cool” the mind and nervous system helping to quiet thoughts
- meditation practice creates spaciousness in the mind
- cultivates greater strength and flexibility in the mind
- inverted poses literally offer a different perspective for looking at the world
- offers a matrix and support system for creating positive change in oneʼs life
Benefits of a regular practice
In addition to receiving more of the benefits listed above, a regular practice provides
- discipline (tapas)
- heightened sense of connection (with yourself, your body, with others, with Life)
- self-trust
- a stronger connection to your intuition
- increased commitment to your health in all areas of your life
- provides a supportive, non-dogmatic context for spiritual exploration
- ability to practice more, as well as more advanced, poses
- provides an inexpensive form of movement and stress release that travels easily and can be done almost anywhere and anytime
- inspiration for you to take the lessons of yoga off the mat and into other areas of your life
