Yoga has been around for centuries, dating back thousands of years ago to ancient India. Today, yoga has become a popular form of exercise that allows the body to de-stress and the mind to relax.
There are a variety of types of yoga practiced across the nation, but the underlying principles remain the same. Yoga classes are centered around the core components of breathing, mediation, and posture. Each of these components offer a unique set of health benefits to the body and mind.
Breathing Exercises – Breathing is a core component in the variety of yoga practices. It is believed that breathing exercises center the body and the mind, signifying overall control and energy. In yoga, having control over breathing allows the body to relax and the mind to focus, allowing one’s overall mental wellbeing to be aligned. Controlled breathing can also help reduce stress and anxiety. In this way, yoga is often recommended to those who suffer from depression or anxiety, as yoga can help to lessen and better manage symptoms.
Meditation – This core component of yoga involves focusing on the movements of the body, which allows the mind to become centered and clear. In this way, you are able to sharpen your concentration while your body relaxes. Learning how to properly meditate can benefit and prepare those who suffer from insomnia or frequent anxiety attacks. Meditation can also help those with heart disease, as it allows a chance for the heart to stabilize and rejuvenate.
Postures – Also referred to as poses, postures are various movements that are designed to improve balance and increase flexibility. These poses each serve a unique purpose and can improve your overall fitness and flexibility. There are various types of poses, some that strengthen the body’s core and arms and some that strengthen and stretch the back. Yoga postures have been known to benefit those with diabetes or those going through menopause. Repeatedly practiced yoga postures can help decrease high blood sugar levels in diabetics and even reduce hot flashes in those women suffering through menopause.
Yoga is something that everyone can do, no matter what level of fitness they start at. With the numerous health benefits yoga has to offer, consider one of our soothing (but strengthening!) yoga courses to center your body and your mind.