The Benefits of Yoga

Yoga is an exercise that includes movement of the body into specific poses combined with slow deep breathing. It is a healthy and active way to relax your body and mind, but the list of benefits goes far beyond relaxation.

The Benefits of Yoga are:

Build self-awareness
Improve circulation
Improve digestion
Reduce risk of injury during sporting activities
Improve balance
Improve joint stability and mobility
Improve strength
Improve posture
Improve endurance
Improve flexibility
Reduce anxiety

Breathing is an important aspect of yoga. When you are first starting out the main focus should be practicing slowing down your breathing. Find a quiet space, sit with your legs crossed, back straight with your hands resting in your lap. I find that closing my eyes helps me feel a sense of calm. Take a slow deep breath in through your nose for a count of 3, then slowly release that breath through your mouth for a count of 3. Repeat this for several breathes. As you progress with your yoga practice try increasing the count of your inhale and exhale, the slow breathes help slow the heart rate, calming the body and mind.

Here is a video of a few beginner poses you can try at home.