Yoga's Positive Benefits to a Healthier You

What is Yoga?

Rooted in Indian philosophy, yoga in India, and other parts of the world, is a spiritual lifestyle. In the United States, yoga is popular for promoting physical activity and mental well-being. The various types of yoga available focus on different techniques. These techniques include physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. From light and accommodating to heavy and challenging, choose a yoga style comfortable for you. If you're unsure which type of yoga is best for you, talk with a clinician, who understands yoga, or a certified yoga instructor before choosing a practice.

Health Benefits

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) has conducted a significant amount of research on the health effects of yoga. While many small studies show potential benefits, larger studies will be needed to provide definitive recommendations. Despite the lack of research on a large scale, many who consistently practice yoga have experienced health and mental benefits. These include:  

• Improvement in eating and activity habits, balance, mental/emotional health, sleep, and/or quality of life
• Management of stress levels, anxiety or depressive symptoms, and/or chronic disease
• Relief of low-back pain, neck pain, and/or menopausal symptoms

Getting Started

Many of us aren't sure how to get started with yoga – it can certainly be challenging and overwhelming. To find yoga classes, centers, or teachers, who can provide in-person guidance and help you feel comfortable, ask family and friends for recommendations. You can also simply do a google search for "yoga near me" or "yoga and list your hometown."  For online options to practice in the privacy of your home, check out YouTube. Because there is so much available on YouTube, be specific as to what you are looking for –   yoga for beginners, yoga for back pain, 10-20-minute yoga practices, etc.

Different people will have different experiences with yoga based on their desired health outcomes. While some want to increase muscle strength or lose weight, others may be more motivated to manage a chronic disease or health-related pain issues. Whatever your reason may be, you may find additional benefits you weren't expecting. Give yourself the time to learn yoga and soon you'll be a fan of this ancient, but also modern, practice.

Source: NIH: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Yoga: What You Need To Know