Benefits of Yoga
I’ll never forget the first time I tried to practice yoga.
I was 19 years old, working to put myself through college and living at home with my parents. My mom asked me if I wanted anything from the Avon catalog (remember those) and I saw a yoga tape (remember those too) and ordered it. While I wanted the tape for exercise, I really ordered it to help relieve the stress of working 30 hours a week, taking 15 credits a semester, and of course having staying out too late at bars.
When it arrived, I excitedly put the tape in my VCR and gave up within the first 10 minutes. I had ZERO flexibility and didn’t even know if I was doing anything correctly. Fast forward five years to when I found myself in a yoga class in grad school to earn a credit so I could apply for financial aid. Oh the hoops we jump through to pay for schooling. But it was here that I started to learn about the philosophy of yoga, the breath work, and really begin to understand the poses. I fell in love with the practice and continued on my journey to not only find a deeper connection with myself, but to teach others how to find that connection as well.
See yoga isn’t just about poses and getting more flexible. It’s a spiritual practice, not religious, and teaches you how to connect your mind, body, and soul. Yoga actually means to yoke or unite. This is why so many people keep coming back to the practice. Yes, it has wonderful physical health benefits, but it has so much more mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits. Something so many of us need, especially right now.
If you like lists though, here are some key benefits yoga has to offer:
Better posture
Increased bone health
Increased blood flow
Improved heart health
Lowered blood pressure
Improved balance
Relaxation aid
Sleeping aid
Increased connection with yourself
Calmer mind
Strengthened social attachments
Reduction in stress
Teaches self-control and discipline
Reduces inflammation throughout the body
May aid in fighting depression
Improved connection with your authentic self
Honestly, I could go on and on with the benefits this 5,000 year old practice has to offer. But don’t just take my word for it. Take a yoga class! There are virtual, in-person, and private classes readily available. I offer all three and would be honored to be your guide through this transformational practice. Schedule a session using the link below if you’re interested.
Don’t know what to eat this week? Download these FREE 7-Day meal plans and get grocery lists AND recipes!