YOGA – Benefits Beyond the Yoga Mat
By:
Jessica Joy
Yoga has its roots in India. India is the land where Yoga first came to exist. It is a batch of physical, mental, and spiritual practices. It is well renowned in today’s busy society. It has experienced a heave in popularity in the Western part among medical professionals and celebrities.
It offers physical and mental health benefits to all age groups. Yoga has been improvised by the young generation and became new age mysticism and a part of new age gym. In this busy schedule, yoga has become the source of enhancing mental and physical health. In today’s world stress has become a part of every other individuals’ life, which is leading to depression mainly in the young generation.
Benefits of Performing Yoga: -
§ It helps in Stress management.
Yoga helps in managing stress, improving sleep and mental health. You should try the Corpse Pose (Savasana), in this asana, you have to lie down with your limbs gently stretched out, away from the body, with your palms facing up. Breathe deeply and clear your mind. Hold this pose for 5-10 minutes.
§ It improves strength, balance, and flexibility.
Deep breathing and slow movements increase blood flow and warm up the muscles. While holding up an asana or pose can build strength. The best asana to build strength is Tree Pose, in this, you have to balance on one foot while holding the other foot to your calf or above the knee at a right angle. Balance for at least one minute.
§ It helps in back pain relief.
It is a good stretching for easing pain and improving mobility in people suffering from back pain. Cat-Cow Pose, helps in relief, in this you have to get on all fours, placing your palms underneath your shoulder and your knees underneath your hips. Inhale and exhale.
§ It benefits heart health
Practicing yoga regularly may reduce stress, contributing to healthier hearts. You should try the Downward Dog Pose.
As Dr. Nevins says, “Regular yoga practice creates mental clarity and calmness; relaxes the mind; centers attention; and sharpens concentration”. Yoga is a small step we all can take to improve our daily lives and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
