Yoga, the practice that originated in ancient India literally, means to join or connect mind, body and soul. The practice of Yoga transcends the aspects of physical exercise. Rather, it encompasses a holistic approach that aligns and harmonises mind, body and spirit. The regular practice of yoga has a number of benefits that enhance our overall well-being and day-to-day life. Yoga delves deeper and isn’t just momentary practice. It has a long-term impact.
The practice of Yoga initially begins by calming the body and mind, It then proceeds towards increasing flexibility, enabling relaxation of all nerves and muscles, reducing stress by engaging in various asanas that bring emotional and mental balance and improved physical health. Eventually in the long run, individuals who practice yoga regularly realise they have built a deeper and stronger connection with themselves.
Some of the other benefits are:
1. Physical flexibility - The more one practices yoga, the more flexible and agile their bodies feel. Yogic asanas and postures are scientifically proven to tone down or tighten the muscles, build resistance, increase flexibility and enhance overall physical balance. With time and consistency, one achieves a toned physique as well.
2. Calmness and stress reduction- This is one of the key benefits of practicing Yoga. Through correct breathing and posture practices, you will find yourself less stressed than before, happier and calmer. Today, when people are always worried or stressed about something or the other, Yoga comes to the rescue by calming them down with the right forms of meditation. Yoga reduces cortisol levels and induces a state of complete relaxation. Having said all of this, it's important that asanas or breathing exercises are learnt and practiced under the guidance of an expert, especially if you are a beginner.
3. Better focus - Yoga strengthens the mind, improving concentration and mindfulness. The brain’s cognitive functioning and improved decision-making skills are all benefits of yogic meditation practices.
4. Improved respiratory function - ‘Pranayama’ is the science of breathing exercises practiced in yoga, which impact the respiratory system of the body. These conscious breathing techniques also help in healing different forms of physical ailments. One’s lung capacity increases and oxygen intake improves.
5. Enhanced sleep quality - The happier, calmer and more relaxed you feel, the better you sleep. Yoga postures can beautifully regulate the sleep-wake cycle. More importantly, it alleviates symptoms of insomnia.
6. Increased energy levels - The release of tension due to regular Yoga occurs gradually. This boosts one’s energy levels, improves blood circulation and stimulates the overall nervous system. With these benefits, one automatically feels rejuvenated.
7. Helps build lean muscle mass - ‘Power Yoga’ and ‘Vinyasa’ provide cardiovascular workouts that help in burning a calories, and building lean muscle mass. Mindfulness leads to better eating habits while keeping body weight in check.
8. Boosts immunity - Maintaining a healthy immune system is extremely important and regular Yoga can bolster the same. The lymphatic system gets stronger and supports the defence mechanism of the body against any allergy, illness or infection.
9. Relief and recovery from pain - Yoga is effective while one is suffering from painful conditions such as lower back pain, spondylitis, arthritis, migraine issues or any other form of chronic pain conditions. These are all advised by the right yoga or health expert.
10. Emotional well-being - Yoga helps create inner peace, followed by feelings of self-care, self-love, acceptance of situations, positive thinking, and forging better connections with oneself and others. The overall attitude of perseverance and resilience also develop over a period of time. An individual eventually starts to channelise their emotions more efficiently.