Yoga draws our focus inward. It raises awareness of bodily sensations, external distractions and, often, a mind racing with thoughts we can’t seem to turn off. It calms our body, it calms our mind. A guided practice can help us detach from the worries our day or any challenges we may be experiencing in our life.
If you practice yoga or have ever taken a yoga class, you have likely experienced its calming effect. Intuitively, you may associate yoga with stress relief and, in fact, a growing body of research supports this. Not only can it help us refocus, but it can also influence physiological changes in our body, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels (the “stress hormone”).
Improves sense of well being
A study of medical students indicated that yoga and meditation resulted in an improved sense of well-being. “The results of our self-assessment survey showed a significant improvement in participants’ levels of peace, focus, and endurance. Improvements in happiness, positivity, personal satisfaction, and self-confidence were also seen.” (1)
Improves mental health
Yoga can improve mood and reduce anxiety. As a result, its use in the treatment of depression and anxiety has shown promise in alleviating and managing symptoms. “There is evidence that yoga has mood-enhancing properties possibly related to its inhibitory effects on physiological stress and inflammation, which are frequently associated with affective disorders.” (2)
Reduces cognitive decline
Cognitive decline associated with aging, such as dementia, has no known cure and pharmaceutical treatments have not proven effective in many cases. Risk factors for dementia include mood and anxiety orders earlier in life. With yoga’s ability to positively impact mood, it can aid in the prevention of cognitive issue later in life, such as poor concentration and impaired memory. A study found that “yoga significantly improved cognitive impairments and depressed mood in a group of individuals with major depressive disorder, demonstrating scope for treatment across multiple domains.” (3)
Eases symptoms of myriad health concerns
A yoga research review published in the international journal, “Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice,” notes the expansive list of health concerns for which yoga can be beneficial. The list is long.
“These include pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum depression; stress, PTSD, anxiety, and obesity; cardiovascular conditions including hypertension; pain syndromes including arthritis, headaches and low back pain; autoimmune conditions including asthma, type II diabetes and multiple sclerosis; immune conditions including HIV and breast cancer; and aging problems including balance, osteoporosis and Parkinson’s.” (4) Yoga may help reduce or alleviate symptoms associated with menopause.
Summary
Yoga is beneficial to both physical and mental health. A growing body of research supports it. However, many of these studies are clinical trials, so more rigorous study is needed to understand its role in the treatment and management of serious illnesses.
However, there is no doubt that yoga benefits the mind and body. The best way to learn this is to experience yoga for yourself.
New to yoga? Try an introductory or gentle yoga class. There is no judgment in yoga, just an invitation to practice and honor your body.
Namaste.