The benefits of practising yoga.
Calms the nervous system and alleviates & anxiety and stress
Induces a shift from the sympathetic nervous system (‘fight or flight’ mode) to the parasympathetic ('rest and digest' mode). This induces the relaxation response by decreasing blood pressure, lowering breathing and heart rates and increasing blood flow to the intestines and reproductive organs.
Improves focus and concentration
Research shows yoga can increase ability to focus mental resources and process, learn and memorise information more quickly and accurately. The brain requires a significant amount of oxygen to function and an increased uptake of it helps to improve productivity and clarity.
Alleviates depression and boosts mood
Increases serotonin levels and decreases cortisol (stress hormone) levels. Meditation, a core component of yoga, can lead to higher activity in the left prefrontal cortex brain region, correlating with greater levels of happiness.
Improves posture and physical body
Muscular tension and stress caused by long periods of desk working is released and hips are loosened. Posture is improved (thereby reducing back pain) through increased body awareness and the development of core muscles. Enhances strength, balance, mobility and flexibility.
Boosts immunity
The stretching and contracting of muscles and movement of organs increases the drainage of lymph fluid, which helps the lymphatic system to fight infection, destroy cancerous cells and dispose of cellular toxic waste.
Enhances sleep
The stretching and relaxing of muscles causes significant physical and mental exertion, resulting in deeper sleep, less sleep disturbances and better sleep efficiency. Good sleep is vital, for copious reasons, to achieve optimal health.