8 reasons to try Yoga today

Yoga may seem (for the ones who are not initiated) like a new-age trend but, in reality, it’s an ancient form of conscious practice dating back to India circa 3000 B.C. Yoga combines postures, breathing techniques and meditative practices to improve physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and its ultimate goal is to help human beings to know God.

The benefits of yoga are countless, and are backed by mounds of scientific studies on the subject. If you haven’t taken the plunge yet, here are eight reasons to try yoga today:

1. Stress relief
Yoga is a spiritual, calming, meditative practice that encourages relaxation and stress relief. Studies show it can help naturally reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

2. Pain relief
Research shows yoga stretches and poses can help provide pain relief. It can be beneficial in easing several medical conditions, including arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and chronic lower back pain, among others.

3. Improved strength
Who doesn’t want to feel strong, confident and capable? Yoga helps strengthen your body from head to toe – especially when it comes to your core.

4. Improved flexibility
Yoga poses might seem intimidating or tricky as a beginner, but as you progress you’ll be able to move your body in no time, thanks to increased flexibility.

5. Weight management
Although yoga isn’t a high intensity workout, it can still help burn calories and reduce stress in the body, lowering cortisol levels and aiding in weight management.

6. Improved circulation
The movement from one pose to the next helps blood move more efficiently to the body’s cells, improving circulation.

7. Better awareness
Yoga teaches you to focus on the present moment. You’re able to clear your mind and focus on the movement, holding each pose then transitioning to the next. This helps improve concentration, coordination, memory, reaction time and overall awareness.

8. Inner peace
Yoga offers meditative aspects to help you reach deeper within yourself. Meditation may not be for everyone, but the calming and regenerative practice of yoga can help you get close enough to reap the mental, emotional and spiritual benefits that meditation has to offer.

yogaesoteric
September 27, 2019

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