Yoga: Four Hidden Health Benefits
Considering starting yoga at home? Here are just a few of its health benefits, as well as a link to take a virtual yoga class!
Yoga is a leading health-and-wellness practice, with about one in seven American adults claiming to practice yoga in a 2017 survey. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic shuttered yoga studios temporarily and spurred many, on reopening, to expand their schedules to streaming online.
If you are thinking about yoga, consider these health benefits:
Reduces Stress
One of the top reasons adults practice yoga is to reduce stress. The reflection and breathing used in yoga can help a person to relax and relieve tension.
Relieves Back Pain
Yoga helps to stretch and strengthen the muscles that support your lower back and spine. Dr. Lauren Elson, instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School says a mindful yoga practice can help people “safely improve their mobility and strength while stretching tight and aching back muscles.” Reducing pain can improve your ability to walk and move.
Helps You Sleep Deeper
A 2017 study found that nearly half of U.S. adults experience sleep issues. Of those, 30% say they practice some form of mind-body exercise, including yoga. Doctors suggest practicing calming yoga poses and the Ujjayi Breath (ocean breath) before bedtime to sleep deeper.
Improves Muscle Strength
Yoga is a gentle way to build and maintain muscle strength with your own body weight. It takes a lot of strength to hold your body in a balanced pose. Practicing yoga regularly will strengthen your arms, legs, core, and back. Positions can be modified based on an individual’s abilities.
Interested in Trying Yoga? Set up at home!
Practicing yoga at home has loads of benefits, in addition to the ones listed above. You can practice anywhere, day or night, don’t need too much equipment and it’s pretty inexpensive. Here are some tips to get you started:
- Find a comfortable and quiet spot for your yoga practice.
- Grab your yoga mat—it’s all you really need.
- Commit to a time for when you’re going to practice. Start small, such as 10-15 minutes a day and at a time that is best for you.
- Pick your class! The advantage of doing a home yoga practice is that you can decide which class you’re going to do. Set up your laptop and hit play!
Not sure where to start class-wise? We can help.
Yoga In Our City, presented by ConnectiCare, is offering daily live-streamed and pre-recorded classes through their Virtual Studio from now until May 22. The program is free and classes are meant for all ages and skill-levels. Get started or continue your yoga practice from the comfort of your home as the weather gets colder. Visit the virtual studio at: https://yogainourcity.com/studio/