Why is yoga so important? It's actually much more than an ancient form of exercise. Yoga is a way to cultivate mindfulness and a mind-body connection that improves health and wellness.
We spend most of our lives sitting at desks and working in front of computer screens, which doesn't exactly promote a healthy, well-connected mind-body connection. In fact, according to the American Heart Association, prolonged sitting is one of the top four risk factors for heart disease.
That's why yoga is so beneficial. It builds stamina and strength, cultivates positive thinking and moods, and even leads to greater concentration, relaxation and improved brain function.
To learn more about how yoga works, I'll share six reasons why yoga is an excellent way to improve health and wellness.
It Promotes a Positive Mental Attitude
If you've ever had a long day at the office and then go home and immediately turn on your TV, you know how easy it is to get sucked into negative news. But if you take time to meditate or practice yoga, it's almost impossible to get into this sort of mindset. That's because practicing yoga makes you mindful. Mindfulness is an attitude of nonjudgmental awareness and a natural state of being in which you focus on your breath and try to let go of thoughts that drain you.
When you adopt a positive mental attitude you're much more likely to be productive and have fun. This isn't a bad thing. Studies show that a positive mental attitude helps you stay healthy and live longer, and it boosts productivity and creativity. And that's just the start.
The Benefits of Yoga Include...
Better Concentration and Brain Function
Research shows that yoga practice improves memory, brain function and concentration. The benefits of a strong mind-body connection are enormous when you're trying to do something new, such as learning a new skill or working on a creative project. You'll be more focused, get more done, and even enjoy your time more when you're practicing yoga.
Yoga Builds Stamina and Strength
Yoga builds stamina, improves flexibility and strengthens muscles. All three are vital to good health and fitness. And studies show that yoga helps you burn fat more efficiently.
Yoga Boosts Your Mood
Studies show that yoga practice improves mood and decreases anxiety, stress and tension. In fact, some research suggests that yoga may have even been used by ancient yogis to treat mental illness.
Yoga Improves Sleep
Research has shown that practicing yoga before bedtime helps you get to sleep faster and sleep longer.
Yoga Reduces Stress
Yoga reduces the effects of stress in several ways. It helps your muscles relax and allows you to breathe deeply. It can also help you get rid of negative thinking patterns that may leave you feeling overwhelmed.
There's a Whole Lot More
In addition to improving mental and physical health, yoga also helps relieve common ailments. It can help with headaches, high blood pressure, arthritis and back pain.
Great post. I do yoga every day