From talking to my friends and family about yoga, I have noticed main factors that discourage people from trying it out. Before discussing the benefits, I would like to address those factors.
Many people don’t want to give yoga a try because they worry that they are not flexible enough. However, you do not have to be flexible to practice yoga. Believe me, I am possibly the least flexible person to exist, and I have still received countless benefits through yoga. Sure, flexibility helps, but you can still achieve all the benefits listed below even if you can’t perform every position. This leads into the next factor.
Many people go into their first class and expect to be able to do everything as the instructor does. Yoga is a practice that takes time to master; be patient. A big component of yoga is being mindful and accepting. My best advice is to be mindful and accepting of your body throughout the practice. If a certain position is too hard or causes you pain, notice this and accept it rather than getting discouraged. A key point I like to remind myself of is that no matter what happens, you are making more progress than you would by not coming at all.
And now, here are the five benefits that you may not have known about yoga.
1. Yoga improves your immune system by draining your lymph nodes
The lymphatic system plays a vital role in protecting the body against infections. The system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of unwanted toxins and destroy harmful cells such as cancer cells. Possible symptoms of lymphatic congestion include feeling bloated, brain fog, fatigue, and dry skin.
2. Yoga reduces stress by regulating your adrenal glands
One of the hormones produced in the adrenal glands is called cortisol, otherwise known as the stress hormone. Those living stressful and busy lives typically have high levels of cortisol. One of the main issues with having high levels of cortisol is that it depresses the immune system, making it easier to catch colds and/or infections. High levels of cortisol can also lead to lack of sleep, weight gain, headaches, anxiety and depression.
3. It can improve your focus
Yoga itself is a practice that requires a lot of focus. Learning to focus and be present in the moment while practicing yoga allows you to tap into that skill and use it in other aspects of your life. Studies show that those who practice yoga improve their ability to focus, recall information and can improve their reaction time. Researchers have also found that those who practice yoga perform better on tests, both speed and accuracy wise.
4. It boosts your mood and promotes happiness
Some forms of yoga are faster paced than others. A form of yoga called power yoga is also a form of aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise promotes happiness by reducing stress and releasing dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings of pleasure and happiness. Often times, feelings of unhappiness stem from negative thoughts about the past or stress related to the future. Studies show that focusing on the present improves your level of happiness. Yoga focuses you on the present, allowing you to separate yourself from whatever stresses and problems that may be occurring in your life.
5. It can make your skin glow
Yoga is a practice that improves your blood flow which in turn makes your skin glow by sending oxygen and nutrients to your skin.
