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Yoga could be ideal if you’re looking to add some calm to your routine. It’s a great way to take some time for yourself and relax, improving your mind and body. Its origins trace back thousands of years and it’s been improving lives in various ways ever since.
Around 460,000 Brits actively participate in this exercise and most are reaping the rewards. If you’re unsure if yoga’s for you, here are some of the main reasons to give it a go.
1. Improve your physical health
You can enhance flexibility, balance, and strength with it, which are crucial for maintaining fitness throughout the different stages of life. Practicing yoga regularly can help keep your muscles supple and your joints mobile, potentially reducing the risk of injury.
It can also play a significant role in improving posture and supporting spinal health. With so many people in the UK working from home or sitting for extended periods, poor posture can lead to back problems and stiffness. A routine centered around alignment and gentle stretching can alleviate these aches and pains.
2. Reduce stress and anxiety
The cost-of-living crisis, work-life balance struggles, and other pressures can easily cause stress to build. Research from February 2024 showed almost two-thirds of Brits are stressed at least weekly and with the rise in energy bills being introduced in October, it doesn’t look like these stresses are stopping any time soon.
Yoga can be a natural antidote to combat these mental pressures. By focusing on breath control, mindfulness, and meditation techniques, you can encourage the body to relax and lower cortisol levels (the hormone responsible for stress). Yoga gives you the opportunity to slow down and appreciate your surroundings and it lets you clear your mind.
3. Promote better sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining good health, but one in three UK people struggle with insomnia. Poor sleep can negatively impact mood, concentration, and productivity, so finding ways to get some shut-eye is vital.
Restorative yoga or gentle evening stretches can calm the mind and relax the body, making it easier to drift off. You may also need a boost in the morning. Consider starting your day with some basic stretches and deep breathing before you grab a coffee; it’s the perfect way to energize naturally and get you outside and socialize with other people.
4. Build a support network
One of the lesser-discussed benefits of this activity is its sense of community. Whether you attend a local class or participate in an online group, you can meet like-minded people who share an interest in well-being and mindfulness.
Yoga communities are thriving, especially for women. Many studios now host women-only sessions and events tailored to various needs, including pregnancy and menopausal classes. It’s a great chance to meet people on the same journey as you as sometimes, it can be a lonely one if you don’t have a support network.
This sense of community can help you feel supported and connected, reducing feelings of isolation. Attending group classes can also provide extra motivation and accountability, making it easier to stick to it.
Yoga is just one element of a healthy lifestyle. Combining it with a balanced diet and other forms of exercise can help you feel the best version of yourself.
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