Yoga by definition is the Hindu spiritual discipline, a part of which, including breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily postures, is widely practiced for health and relaxation (as told by Google). According to the 2016 Yoga in America study, over 35 million Americans are practicing yogis, but fewer than 75% of those yogis have been practicing for less than 5 years. So, what is with this new trend in practicing yoga? It could be the amazingly comfortable yoga pants, the amazing feeling of being relaxed or even the incredible health benefits it brings. To be totally honest, any reason you have to practice yoga is a good one. Recent studies have shown astounding health benefits from practicing regularly. As someone who adopted this lifestyle just a few years ago, I can see the difference in my mental attitude, overall mood, motivation and strength abilities.
If you're reading this and thinking I'm too old for yoga or my body just can't bend that way, stop that right now! Yoga is for everyone. That is part of what makes this practice so wonderful. You can begin at any age and you progress based on dedication, practice and discipline- just like you have to apply yourself in anything, progress will come. Walking into a yoga room, you will see yogis who are well experienced, moms, teenage girls, body builders and even middle-aged men. this practice does not discriminate and it can benefit all age groups.
One of the main focuses of yoga is strength training and this is accomplished throughout classes as yogis perform multiple poses. There is an emphasis on engaging your core and if you do it properly, your neck, back and shoulders will thank you for the benefits. Each class isn't solely meant to be a workout, but it's meant to aid a lifestyle. Yoga helps posture, relieves stress levels, builds muscles, drops blood pressure, helps you focus and can even improve your mood!
How can it improve your mood? Good question. We all know that exercise releases endorphins. These chemicals interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. They also trigger a positive feeling in the body (WebMD). There have even been studies that promote the idea of continual yoga practice improved depression and led to a significant increase in serotonin levels (yogajournal).
Now, to my college students, yoga is most definitely for you too! Have no money for classes or a mat? (Never fear! Marshalls sells good quality mats for really reasonable prices). If you are worried about gaining the freshman 15, which is causing you to stress out because you already have that huge chemistry exam tomorrow so you can't even sleep with that on your mind- YOGA YOGA YOGA. It will reduce your stress levels, improve your focus and helps reduce tensions that build up in your muscles. With your increased focus, you will be done studying sooner and guess what that means....sleep! Oh yes, the precious gift of sleep that we all miss so much, it can soon be yours again! If you finish all of your work and still can't seem to fall asleep, yoga can help you out again. Yoga is known to increase serotonin levels by inducing the relaxation response. Serotonin is the chemical released in your brain that has been known to positively affect mood, memory and sleep patterns! Man, how can this be any better?! Say after you ace your chemistry exam, you decide to go celebrate at a bar with your friends. One celebratory drink leads to another and next thing you know, you're waking up for morning yoga hungover. Don't skip class because you feel awful, yoga can speed up your recovery! Different yoga postures release certain toxins (hottytoddy.com) and improve blood circulation. Also, reoxygenating your body throughout practice will help revive and recover your body!
Are you interested in yoga, yet? If you still don't think it will brighten your day, bring your girlfriend and earn ultimate browning points while falling in love with the practice yourself! Ladies, Bring your boyfriend and revel when he asks you to join him next time. New yogis, welcome.
