Benefits of Yoga

What is yoga?

The word yoga comes from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. It is a derivation of the word yuj, which means yoking, as in a team of oxen. In contemporary practice, this is often interpreted as meaning union. Yoga is said to be for the purpose of uniting the mind, body, and spirit.

Physical Benefits

Improves flexibility and strength. Strong muscles protect us from conditions like arthritis and back pain, and help prevent falls in elderly people.
Exercises your joints through their full range of motion. This can help prevent degenerative arthritis or mitigate disability by "squeezing and soaking" areas of cartilage that normally aren't used.
Keeps the spinal cord supple and strong. A healthy spine is a healthy being.
Strengthens bones and helps ward off osteoporosis.
Improves respiration, energy, and vitality.
Helps to maintain a balanced metabolism.
Boosts your immune system.
Promotes cardio and circulatory health.
Helps you look and feel younger than your age.

Mental Benefits

Helps you relax and handle stressful situations more easily. Yoga can provide relief from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Teaches you how to quiet the mind so you can focus your energy where you want it to go - into a difficult yoga pose, or in the office.
Encourages positive thoughts and self-acceptance.
Makes you a happier person. Studies have shown that consistent yoga practice improved depression and led to a significant increase in serotonin levels and a decrease in the levels of monoamine oxidase (an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters) and cortisol.
Quells the fluctuations of the mind and achieves peace of mind. In other words, it slows down the mental loops of frustration, regret, anger, fear, and desire that can cause stress.
Builds awareness of your body, your feelings, the world around you, the needs of others.

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