I’m back from the long weekend to talk to you about one of my favorite things, yoga!
When I first started yoga, I did so primarily to help with anxiety. I was told how it would help me relax, so I went for it. I also knew it would help with flexibility. What I didn’t expect was all of the other benefits associated with yoga that have served me well in my health journey. Here are a few of my favorites!
1. It helps self-esteem
I had no idea how much yoga would do for my self image. When I am doing yoga, I am completely focused on myself and my body. I am focused on my breaths and my body’s movements, and I appreciate what my body is doing for me. I reflect on what my body does for me all day, every day. It has given me a greater respect for my body, which in turn has really helped with my self-esteem.
2. It helps with appetite suppression
I noticed this amazing benefit almost immediately after beginning yoga. When I am diligent in my yoga practice, I don’t snack as much, eat smaller portions, and am mindful about what I am eating. According to Harvard Medical School, there is good reason for this! Yoga increases mindfulness, or being present in the moment, and this carries over to meal times.
3. It boosts your immune system
According to a recent Norwegian study, practicing yoga provides a boost to the immune system. The best part is that you can experience this benefit almost immediately! Yoga helps circulate the body’s immune cells and can provide the immunity boost you need before you’re even done with your session!
4. It is heart healthy
Yoga is excellent for heart health! It not only helps in reducing stress, but also blood pressure and cholesterol.
5. It helps with pain
This has been one of my favorite benefits so far. I’m usually quick to write off exercise when I’m sore, but yoga actually helps with pain and soreness so much. I have done yoga specifically to help with my back pain, and it feels amazing to stretch out my back. I notice huge improvements after just one session! I have also done yoga for neck and shoulder pain.
If you’re wanting to try yoga but not sure where to start, I highly recommend Yoga with Adriene on YouTube. You don’t have to spend a dime! When I started, I didn’t even have a mat.
And of course there are so many other yoga benefits that I couldn’t possibly fit in one post, but a quick Google search will give you even more reasons to begin.
If you’re a fellow yogi, what are some reasons you love yoga? Let me know in the comments!
The Art of Wellness 