Evidence continues to mount of the benefits of yoga and over the past several years’ yoga has experienced an upsurge in popularity in the western world.
Taken from the book, 'Yoga as medicine ' by Timothy McCall MD, below lists forty ways that yoga facilitates better health.
· Increases Flexibility
· Strengthens Muscles
· Improves Balance
· Improves immune function
· Improves posture
Improves lung function
· Leeds to slower and deeper breathing
· Discourages mouth breathing
· Increases Oxygenation of tissues
· Improves joint health
· Nourishes intervertebral disks
· Improves return of venous blood
· Increases circulation of lymph
· Improves function of the feet
· Improves proprioception
· Increases control of bodily functions
· Strengthens bones
· Conditions the cardiovascular system
· Promotes weight loss
· Relaxes the nervous system
· Improves the function of the nervous system
· Improves brain function
· Activates the left prefrontal cortex
· Chances neurotransmitter levels
· Lowers levels of the stress hormone Cortisol
· Lowers blood sugar
· Lowers blood pressure
· Improves levels of cholesterol and triglycerides
· Thins the blood
· Improves bowel function
· Releases unconscious muscular gripping
· Uses imagery to effect change in body
· Relieves pain
· Lowers need for medication
· Fosters healing relationships
· Improves psychological health
· Leads to healthier habits
· Fosters spiritual growth
· Elicits the placebo effect
· Encourages involvement in your own healing
And ..... most of all, it just feels good.
A more detailed explanation of each of these benefits can be found in Timothy McCall’s MD BOOK 'Yoga as Medicine ' .
Come to my Ashtanga yoga class at Great Park Community Centre .
Every Sunday at 9am .
We also have mats so just bring yourself – it’s that easy.