For about 5,000 years, yoga has been a part of the world. While most of us are familiar with the idea of yoga, many of us do not quite understand what it is, how it works, or why it is good for the body. Although yoga is generally associated with various Eastern religions, the true basis of yoga is stretching exercises that benefit the mind and body, and that can help anyone, regardless of their religious background or beliefs. While yoga is known to have many benefits, three of the benefits that are most immediately pertinent to the body are the effects of yoga on breathing, the heart, and the mind.
If you do not breathe, you cannot live; in this way, breathing is one of the most important aspects of life. But many of us fail to realize that we can improve our breathing. Yoga improves lung capacity by focusing on deep, mindful breathing. This can improve the performance and endurance of those who play sports, being hugely beneficial for them. But even for those who do not play sports, this improvement in breathing will prove helpful in everyday life.
Yoga
A healthy heart translates to a healthy body. Among the studies that draw a correlation between yoga and health benefits, no areas have been focused on more than the correlation between yoga and a healthy heart. Yoga can slow the body's heart rate, and it can also lower the body's blood pressure. Yoga has also been linked to decreased cholesterol and a boost in the body's immune system. In fact, yoga can be beneficial for the heart to such an extreme extent that is has even been proven to help reverse heart disease!
Yoga also has an immensely positive impact on the mind. It has been proven that the practice of yoga can reduce the risk of depression; yoga can also increase concentration and decrease stress levels. As yoga brings extra oxygen to the brain and lowers hormone neurotransmitter levels, a sense of calm and wellness is created.
All it takes to practice yoga is 15 to 20 minutes of your time each day. With regular yoga practice, the body's respiration, circulation, and mental well being can all be improved. Think about beginning yoga practice yourself - you're sure to be happy with the benefits! Try getting a friend or two involved in daily yoga practice,who knows, you may start a trend in the neighborhood.
Yoga and Its Benefits
The author, Bobby Shrimpton, is a retired U.S. Marine, fought in the Vietnam Conflict, receiving three Purple Hearts, and several unit citations. He also maintains Bobby's Fitness Blog. You are welcome to go there for other interesting articles.