Health Benefits of Yoga

By January 14, 2015Blog
man doing yoga outside

Yoga is a series of stretches and poses that you do with breathing techniques.  It offers the powerful benefits of exercise. And since yoga is gentle, almost anyone can do it, regardless of your age or fitness level.   There are many branches of yoga. Some yoga styles are intense and vigorous while others are relaxing and meditative. No matter which type you choose, yoga is a great way to stretch and strengthen your body, focus your mind, and relax your spirit.  All the while,  making you healthier! So forget what you think about yoga and we will explain a few amazing health benefits of yoga!

Yoga Benefits:

Migraines

Research shows that migraine sufferers have fewer and less painful migraines after three months of yoga practice. The cause of migraines isn’t fully understood, but it’s most likely a combination of mental stressors and physical misalignment. Leaning over a computer or cell phone with your shoulders up and head forward causes over lifting and tightening of the neck. This pulls the head forward and creates muscle imbalances that can contribute to headaches and migraines.

Asthma –

Yoga can’t cure asthma, but certain poses can certainly help open up your airways, helping you breathe better. To keep your airways clear and prevent a coughing fit from coming on.  Yoga exercise among asthmatic patients can result in a decreased number of day and night attacks and use of drugs. It also shows significant improvement in the  expiratory flow rate.

Diabetes –

Speeds nerve impulses and lowers blood sugar.

Menopause

Menopausal women who took two months of a weekly restorative yoga class reported a 30 percent decrease in hot flashes.  Many women who took a 90-minute class twice a week boosted both their energy and mood; plus they reported less physical and sexual discomfort, and reduced stress and anxiety. 

Heart Burn

Certain poses loosen and increase suppleness of the spine as the back, neck and arm muscles elongate. Spinal fluid is stimulated and circulated. The digestive tract is compressed, cleansing and renewing the blood reservoirs in the abdominal region.

Talk with your local Coastal Urgent Care doctor before you begin yoga or any other kind of exercise. It’s a good idea to take a class with an experienced teacher. Let the teacher know about any health conditions you may have, such as high blood pressure or arthritis. Tell him or her about any injuries or physical problems. A good teacher will know which exercises are best for you, and tell you which poses to avoid.