Yoga can do... an incredible amount of things!

Yoga is defined as union.  Specifically, it is referring to the union of the mind, body, and spirit.  Talk to anyone who has taken yoga on any kind of a regular basis and they can confirm the accuracy of this definition.  Because of what yoga is, there are so many things it can offer us. 

If you have heard anything about yoga, it probably included a few benefits – reasons why you should commit to a regular practice.  Yogis the world over have been touting the many benefits of yoga for centuries.  Bu t we are fortunate to live in this present time.  A time when there are thousands of medical and scientific studies that now prove what yogis have known all along - yoga is so good very for all aspects of our mind, body, and spirit.

So what exactly are some of the proven benefits of yoga?  Check out this list of some of the main benefits different types of yoga can provide (listed in no particular order):

• Builds muscle
• Improves flexibility
• Perfects posture
• Prevents cartilage and joint break down
• Protects the spine
• Improves bone health
• Increases blood flow
• Drains lymphs and boosts immunity
• Improves the immune system functionality overall
• Increases heart rate
• Lowers blood pressure
• Regulates adrenal glands
• Makes you happier
• Leads to a healthier lifestyle
• Lowers blood sugar
• Helps you focus
• Relaxes/destresses you
• Improves your balance
• Maintains your nervous system
• Releases tension in the body (in the limbs especially)
• Improves sleep
• Improve breathing (which also increases lung capacity)
• Helps prevent IBS and other digestive problems
• Increases self-esteem
• Eases pain
• Gives you inner strength
• Can connect you to guidance/higher power
• Can help you lessen the need for medications/drugs
• Builds awareness for transformation
• Benefits relationships
• Supports your connective tissues

And the list goes on.  Don’t believe it?  Then give yoga a try.  Take a few classes and see how you feel.  You can experience many of these benefits just from practicing 1-2 times per week.  The more you practice, the more you will benefit. 

And with so many different types of yoga available, if you allow yourself to check out a variety of classes and teachers you are bound to find some that will resonate with you.   Simply put yoga is for any body as well as for anybody, so go on and give it a try! 

Namaste!