If you’re a passionate yoga practitioner, you’ve probably noticed some yoga benefits—maybe you’re sleeping better or getting fewer colds or just feeling more relaxed and at ease. But if you’ve ever tried telling a newbie about the benefits of yoga, you might find that explanations like “It increases the flow of prana” or “It brings energy up your spine” fall on deaf or skeptical ears.
The benefits of yoga provide both instant gratification and lasting transformation. In the fitness world, both are extremely important. Too much time with too few results can be incredibly discouraging, and monotonous routines week after week can lead to stagnation. Yoga can change your physical and mental capacity quickly, while preparing the mind and body for long-term health.
27 Amazing Benefits of Yoga
- Better Flexibility
- Better Posture
- Better Balance
- More Strength
- Tones the Body
- Better Sleep
- More Energy
- Better Sex
- Lower Blood Pressure
- Better Circulation
- Lower Cholesterol
- Lower Risk of Heart Disease
- Less Pain
- Boost Your Metabolism
- Weight Loss
- Better Immunity
- Better Respiration
- Less Stress and Anxiety
- Better Memory
- Lower Blood Sugar Levels
- Lowers Sodium Levels
- Improves Digestion
- Moves Lymph Fluid
- Helps Prevent Osteoporosis
- Alleviates Symptoms from Many Conditions
- Improves Your Outlook on Life
- Provides an Inner Calmness (Eventually)
Cardiovascular Benefits
Several small studies have found yoga to have a positive effect on cardiovascular risk factors: It helped lower blood pressure in people who have hypertension. It’s likely that the yoga restores “baroreceptor sensitivity.” This helps the body senses imbalances in blood pressure and maintain balance.
Another study found that practicing yoga improved lipid profiles in healthy patients as well as patients with known coronary artery disease. It also lowered excessive blood sugar levels in people with non-insulin dependent diabetes and reduced their need for medications. Yoga is now being included in many cardiac rehabilitation programs due to its cardiovascular and stress-relieving benefits.
Before you start a new exercise program, be sure to check with your doctor.
Researchers are also studying if yoga can help people with depression and arthritis, and improve survival from cancer.
