Maintaining a regular yoga practice can provide physical and mental health benefits.
“The purpose of yoga is to build strength, awareness and harmony in both the mind and body,” - Natalie Nevins, DO, a board-certified osteopathic family physician and certified Kundalini Yoga instructor in Hollywood, California.
There are more than 100 different types of yoga and most sessions typically include breathing exercises, meditation, and poses that stretch and flex various muscle groups.
Physical benefits of practicing yoga:
- Increased flexibility
- Increased muscle strength and tone
- Improved respiration, energy and vitality
- Maintaining a balanced metabolism
- Weight reduction
- Cardio and circulatory health
- Improved athletic performance
- Protection from injury
Mental benefits of practicing yoga:
- Helps to manage stress
- Helps develop coping skills
- Helps reach a more positive outlook on life
- Creates clarity and calmness
- Increases body awareness
- Relieves chronic stress patterns
- Relaxes the mind
- Centers attentions
- Sharpens concentration
With final exams right around the corner, try incorporating a quick yoga session into your everyday routine. Since there are so many types of yoga, it's possible for anyone to start and choose how they want to practice.
Below are five videos to help get you started:
Looking for something more challenging? Check out Sarah Beth's YouTube channel here.
All information taken from the American Osteopathic Association.
XOXO, Sophie