Yoga improves strength, stability, flexibility, and balance in one workout
Yoga is the ultimate well-rounded workout. Most people think of yoga an exercise to work on increasing flexibility, but it does oh so much more. In fact, my favorite aspect of yoga is for those who don’t need to work on flexibility at all. For those who have extra mobility, such as pregnant/post-partum women or those with genetic hyperlaxity, yoga is even more beneficial because it teaches you how to move through your full range of motion with control. This improves your stability which is critical for daily function without pain! Practicing yoga regularly can improve strength and balance, both of which can help improve your function and decrease your risk of injury over your lifetime.
Yoga works the body as well as the mind
Although is great for getting your blood flowing and body working, many of the benefits of yoga are not physical at all. Yoga teaches you how to connect your body and mind using your breath. This allows you to clear and focus your mind and set intention. Yoga teaches you how to relax your body and mind which can have significant long-term benefits with stress relief and improving mental health.
Yoga is low impact
Unlike exercise that requires running, jumping, stepping, etc, yoga is low impact meaning it puts lower load and therefore, less stress on your joints. This is great for long-term safety of your joints and for those already dealing with joint issues, such as osteoarthritis. This also makes yoga a safer option for those with comorbid conditions including pregnancy. Due to the lower load on the joints, the body requires less rest and therefore, yoga can be done safely every day.
Yoga easy, adaptable, and affordable
Although many people join a yoga studio or get fancy yoga equipment, practicing yoga requires absolutely no equipment and can be absolutely FREE. Yoga is adaptable so you can do it in your own home on your own time. You can choose to perform your own routine or you can find practices for all levels of all lengths for free online. Yoga is all about you doing what feels right for your body so every practice can be modified to fit your needs and your fitness level.
Everyone can benefit from it!
Finally, my favorite thing about yoga is it holds benefits for EVERYONE, regardless of age, sex, or life circumstance. Whether you’ve had a recent injury, you deal with chronic pain, or you just need a regular exercise routine, yoga can be the right fit for you. Yoga can improve blood pressure, balance, stress, strength, stability, flexibility, and so much more! I love to incorporate yoga into my rehab process but even more I love to practice yoga myself to keep my mind and body healthy.
If you are interested in the benefits of yoga or are looking for a physical therapist with a holistic mindset, contact Life Changes Physical Therapy today to learn what we can do for you!