The Simple Science behind Yoga
Does Science Confirm Benefits of Yoga?
The beginnings of yoga date back to the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India about 5000 years ago. This ancient practice that incorporates various postures coupled with breathing techniques survived for centuries thanks to its amazing benefits. What makes yoga truly special is the fact that even modern science and medicine are starting to unravel its amazing potential. If you have ever wondered if science confirms benefits of yoga, you came to the right place.
Stress therapy
Modern-day society is characterized by a hectic and stressful lifestyle. When stress is left unresolved, it affects our sleep, productivity, and stands as a risk factor for numerous health conditions. According to the new UPLIFT film “The Science Behind Yoga” which takes you to the journey through wonderful benefits of this ancient practice, one of the biggest reasons people practice yoga is to cope with stress.
Evidence shows that yoga has the ability to reduce work-related stress and enhances stress adaptation significantly. Furthermore, a study from the International Journal of Yoga found that yoga provides both immediate and long-term effect on anxiety reduction as well. To de-stress and stay calm, yoga is the right way to go.
Flexibility
When you’re switching from one posture to another, different muscle groups activate. In turn, you become more flexible and increase your range of motion. Scientists from the North-Eastern Illinois University carried out a study where 26 college athletes were randomized to two groups: yoga in addition to their standard training and control group (no yoga). They discovered that yoga increases flexibility and balance, and it also enhances athletic performance.
Thanks to the increased flexibility and range of motion as well as yoga’s potential to reduce stress and relieve pain, this ancient practice is also beneficial for individuals with arthritis. Even the Arthritis Foundation recommends yoga primarily because it is a low-impact physical activity and doesn’t form too much pressure on your joints. A growing body of evidence also shows that yoga reduces joint tenderness, swelling, pain, and improves mental health in arthritis sufferers.
Weight loss
According to a study whose findings were published in the American Journal of Managed Care, yoga is also beneficial for weight loss. How it’s not cardio? Well, the research found that yoga reduces levels of stress hormone cortisol. High levels of this hormone make it difficult for you to lose fat, particularly in the stubborn belly area. Additionally, yoga increases mindfulness and motivates you to make healthier lifestyle choices.
Heart health
An extensive review of studies which included 37 clinical trials found that yoga lowers blood pressure, cholesterol, heart rate, and other cardiovascular risk factors. In fact, effects of yoga are comparable to those of aerobic exercise. These improvements lead to better heart health and reduced risk of heart attack, even stroke. Scientists also explain that yoga induces the relaxation and behavior modification that goes along with better health. Yoga is ideal for people who physically can’t take grueling workouts as well as for individuals who already survived a heart attack.
Diabetes prevention and management
A research carried out by scientists at Harvard School of Public Health and the University of Southern Denmark found that muscle-strengthening exercises, including yoga, can reduce the risk of diabetes by 30% to 40%, which is remarkable. It is important to mention that this is the first study to show that muscle-strengthening activities can reduce diabetes risk.
Additionally, a separate research discovered that yoga is incredibly effective in reducing the blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Therefore, not only can yoga help you prevent diabetes, but it also helps patients manage their condition successfully.
Yoga tips
As shown above, yoga is extremely beneficial for both your mind and body. One of the most common reasons why people are reluctant to practice yoga is because they think it’s way too difficult. Wrong! There are hundreds of postures, techniques, and variations and the secret is starting from the very beginning i.e. the easiest movements. Here are some yoga-related tips and tricks that beginners should know:
Keep a yoga journal and document your experience as well as postures you know and those you want to learn
Don’t focus on speed of execution, but inhales and exhales and proper technique
Join yoga class
Connect with other people who are passionate about yoga
Make space in your home for yoga
Practice in nature
Invest in sticky mat
Start with the easiest exercises and build your way to more complex postures
Conclusion
Yoga has been around for centuries and its popularity in the modern age isn’t so surprising. This ancient practice benefits your body, mind, and soul. Yoga is not complicated and also it not a workout, but lifestyle. If you don’t practice yoga, you should start today and your body will thank you.
References
http://upliftconnect.com/watch-science-behind-yoga/