Yoga and You

For those of us who don’t like the gym and just the idea of a crisp, brisk walk makes us snuggle deeper under the covers, yoga may be just the answer you’re looking for. This exercise can be done in your own home, at your own pace and let’s be honest everyone looks good in yoga pants. Yoga has many physical benefits. According to https://osteopathic.org, these benefits can include:

•    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

The most exciting benefit is that because yoga includes mindfulness such as meditation and deep breathing, it has very impactful mental health benefits as well. One can use yoga as a coping mechanism as well. If you or someone you know is suffering from some sort of ailment whether it be physical and/or mental and you believe yoga can be of benefit, please consult your therapist or doctor before proceeding to add to your healing regiment.

There are hundreds of poses one can master when practicing yoga, however, https://www.doyouyoga.com/the-10-most-important-yoga-poses-for-beginners-25270/ suggest that there are 10 must do poses that one must learn before moving on to the next level of mastery. These poses include the Downward Facing Dog, Warrior 1 and 2, Tree, and Mountain Pose. To get a visual of how to do these poses and check out others, follow the link above. Hopefully, this will inspire you to nama-stay in the house (or in the gym, your choice) and get your exercise on!

By Garcsa Brooks,

Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc.