6 Reasons Why I Do Yoga
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6
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By Robin Westen
I never thought about practicing yoga. But I decided to give it a try after a good friend told me about its mental and physical benefits. I enrolled in a beginner’s class—and twelve years later, my yoga practice is still going strong. Here’s what yoga has given me:
Increased Flexibility
Yoga works to improve the elasticity of the spine through its thousands of postures (asanas). These postures, done along with deep and rhythmic breathing, work the spine and muscles of the body through a dual action of push and pull. Areas of the body are elongated (the pull action) while also being strengthened using the resistance of my own body weight (the push action).
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Stress Reduction
Yoga is a proven technique for countering the damaging effects of stress from wrinkles to heart disease. With its precise movements, it draws focus away from chaos toward calm as I move my body through poses that require balance and concentration. -
Eases Aches and Pains
Yoga helps to relieve the dryness and tightness in our muscles and joints associated with debilitating conditions like arthritis and back pain by improving the circulation in these restricted regions. Plus, yoga forces oxygen into tight areas, improving oxygenation throughout my body. -
Boosts Optimism
Chronic pain and constant stress are strongly correlated with depression and decreased energy. As people with a chronic ailment adopt a consistent yoga practice, their physical symptoms start to improve. And that eases their mood does as well. -
Widens the Social Circle
Getting together regularly with like-minded people increases the opportunity to make new and deeper friendships. Camaraderie is strengthened because you’re sharing the same goal. I have several yoga buddies. -
Keeps the Mind Alert
Many yoga postures require laser focus. By maintaining concentration, my brain remains continually challenged.
About the Author
Robin Westen is ThirdAge's Medical Director. Check for her daily updates. Her latest book, co-written with Dr. Alyssa Dweck, is "V is for Vagina."
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