Whether you attend a yoga class several days each week or have never stepped onto a yoga mat in your life, you may be surprised by the many benefits this form of exercise has to offer. While some people may not expect yoga to offer a good workout, it is actually advantageous to both your physical and mental health. Consider a few reasons to make yoga a part of your regular exercise routine.
- Reduce Stress
Yoga encourages participants to be mindful, focus on their breathing, and remain calm. This may impact mental wellbeing in a number of ways. Mindfulness can change the way people view themselves and help them make better decisions about things like eating habits. There are even classes available that are specifically targeted towards yoga therapy.
- Increase Flexibility
Yoga also involves a great deal of stretching. Whether or not you engage in other forms of exercise, being more limber may decrease the likelihood of various kinds of injuries.
- Build Muscle
There are many different forms of yoga, some focusing on holding poses, others on maintaining a flow of various positions. All of these forms help build muscle throughout your body, though some yoga exercises may affect distinct areas. Strengthening your heart and skeletal muscles may improve your cardiovascular health and your posture.
- Connect With Others
Finally, taking group yoga classes gives you an opportunity to exercise alongside friends. These connections may help you enjoy your workout more, as well as stay accountable to regularly attending class. These relationships may also be beneficial in terms of decreasing stress.
While yoga may not be for everyone, be sure to try it before ruling it out as an exercise option. By spending just a few hours doing yoga each week, you may notice significant improvements in your mental and physical state.
