The Benefits of Yoga

Many people know some of the benefits of Yoga, for example, improved flexibility or relaxation, but few people are aware of the extent of the benefits to body, mind and spirit. Whether you approach Yoga hoping for physical or mental improvements, you cannot help but achieve some of both. Yoga postures are designed to utilise core strength, correct posture or alignment and both strengthen and open muscles simultaneously. This decreases the likelihood of injury in Yoga and in everyday life, it also allows for a wider range of movement and a decrease in pain or discomfort in the body. The postures also massage the internal organs and this action coupled with increased levels of oxygen in the body, as a result of breathing exercises, aid the cardiovascular system and encourages optimal functioning of the gastrointestinal system. The same actions boost the immune system and delay the effects of aging. On an emotional and mental level, pranayama and meditation relax and ground the Yogi/Yogini. The act of opening, strengthening and finding harmony within the body can level the mood, lift the energy or calm the mind, depending on what is out of balance. Working with your body on such a detailed level can encourage care and appreciation of the body and the self. Overall the emotional and spiritual benefits are many and varied and often personal to the individual. Most commonly there is a deep sense of relaxation, improved mood and improved sleep pattern.