Yoga has become increasingly popular in recent years.

And many of you have already known what Yoga is and have practiced it before…According to the International Yoga Federation, about 300 million people practice globally! (wow!)

But let me re-introduce you to those who have never done yoga or don’t really know what it is or how to.

Yoga’s origins can be traced to northern India over 5,000 years ago.

Did you know..? There are more than 100 different forms of yoga. Some can be fast-paced and intense, most are gentle and relaxing, which I really enjoy.

Examples of different yoga forms include:

Hatha. The form most often associated with yoga combines a series of basic movements with breathing.
Vinyasa. A series of poses that flow smoothly into one another.
Power. A faster, higher-intensity practice that builds muscle.
Ashtanga. A series of poses, combined with a special breathing technique.
Bikram. Also known as “hot yoga,” it’s a series of 26 challenging poses performed in a room heated to a high temperature.
Iyengar. A type of yoga that uses props like blocks, straps, and chairs to help you move your body into the proper alignment.

..Is yoga good exercise?

YES! And since yoga is gentle, almost anyone can do it, regardless of your age or fitness level. Some research finds it can be just as good as aerobic exercise for improving health. It takes a lot of strength to hold your body in a balanced pose. Regular practice will strengthen the muscles of your arms, back, legs, and core.

Yoga does more than burn calories and tone muscles. It’s a total mind-body workout that combines strengthening and stretching poses with deep breathing and meditation or relaxation.

In fact, the original context of yoga was spiritual development practices to train the body and mind to self observe and become aware of their own nature.

So here are 10 health benefits of practicing Yoga

1. Increased muscle strength and tone

2. Increased flexibility

3. Increased energy levels

4. Improved respiration (respiratory system)

5. Low impact and helps with weight loss

6. Balancing metabolism

7. Circulatory health (cardiovascular system)

8. Injury prevention

9. Athletic performance (better endurance, balance and focus)

10. Stress management

..By practicing yoga and incorporating its breathing and meditation techniques, you are developing skills to manage your stress levels.

Practicing yoga in the morning (best with sunrise) can give you a boost of energy and clarity and help set the tone for the rest of your day.

Be Well, Be Kind

~ Namaste ~