Numerous studies have proven the many benefits associated with practicing yoga; from reduced anxiety and improved moods to increased flexibility and better posture. Furthermore, yoga has been found useful in the treatment of certain mental disorders. Here are eight reasons to start doing yoga for optimal mental health.
Yoga Minimizes Stress Levels
Practicing yoga is known to promote relaxation as well as minimize chronic stress. Various studies have proven that yoga can reduce the secretion of the stress hormone, cortisol. In one study, results indicated that after three months of following a yoga program, the participant’s cortisol levels had significantly dropped, leading to reduced stress, anxiety, fatigue, and depression.
People suffering from different forms of anxiety can find solace in yoga classes. Interestingly, there exists enough research to prove the effectiveness of yoga in reducing anxiety. One of the studies that ran for two months focused on women who suffered from anxiety disorder symptoms. At the end of this study, research revealed that there was a significant decrease in anxiety levels of participants.
Yoga Promotes a Positive Outlook on Life
In order to remain healthier and happier, it is essential to have a positive perception of life and yoga can aid in this endeavor. The Harvard T.H Chan School of Public Health highlights the advantages of emotional vitality, which includes being hopeful and enthusiastic. The study also found it to prevent diseases like hypertension. Furthermore, yoga helps promote your emotional dynamism, optimism, self-regulation ability, and social support.
Yoga Promotes Emotional Resilience
According to research, resilience is the actual litmus test for success because it allows you to comprehend problems through tough situations. A study revealed that yoga can help you develop high levels of resilience. In this study, participants were able to improve their psychological attitudes and mood through practicing yoga as it helps build grit that can translate into handling the inherent stress that comes from relationships, work, and life in general.
Yoga Helps Reduce Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a common problem affecting millions of people globally. It can have a wide range of possible causes, from arthritis to simple injuries, and can lead to depression and anxiety. Instead of relying on painkillers, yoga can help ease chronic pain. In a recent study involving 2,000 participants, various drug-free options were tried involving mindfulness-based stress minimization and cognitive behavioral therapy. In therapies involving yoga, participants fared much better than in remedies without it.
Conclusion
Yoga supports strong emotional health. From fighting depression and stress, to promoting resilience and regulating heart rate, yoga proves to be an effective remedy to de-stress. By incorporating yoga into your daily routine, you will gain both mental and physical health.
Huge thanks to guest blogger Erika Long! Erika loves corgis, curry and comedy. Always searching for the next great snuggle, flavor or laugh, she inspires people to live their best life now. When not writing, Erika can be found at her local brewery dominating Harry Potter trivia night.