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Bringing the mind and body together, yoga is an ancient practice. This practice, which aims to relax and reduce stress with breathing exercises, meditation and poses called 'asana', has many scientifically proven positive effects on both the mind and body.
Below are some of the positive effects of yoga:
It reduces stress
Studies show that yoga reduces the secretion of cortisone, the main stress hormone. Moreover, in this way, not only stress, but also anxiety, fatigue and depression symptoms are significantly reduced. Regular practice of yoga is a very powerful tool in the fight against anxiety disorder.
Reduces inflammation in the body
Inflammation is a response of the immune system and, when chronic, can lead to health problems such as heart disease, cancer or diabetes. According to studies, the rate of inflammation in the body of those who do yoga is much lower than those who do not. This demonstrates the anti-disease effect of yoga as well.
Improves heart health
High blood pressure is one of the main causes of heart health problems such as strokes and heart attacks. The blood pressure lowering effect of yoga makes it a very effective practice for heart health. Yoga also slows the progression of heart disease and lowers cholesterol.
Good for depression
It is known that yoga has an anti-depressant effect because it reduces the secretion of cortisone hormone. Yoga, which has been proven by research to significantly reduce the symptoms of depression, can be used alone or with other methods used to combat depression.
Relieves chronic pain
Chronic pain is a problem that affects millions of people around the world. There are many studies that show that yoga is good for these pains, which can have many causes from injuries to joint inflammation.
Increases sleep quality
Poor quality sleep brings along other problems such as obesity, high blood pressure, depression and so on. Thanks to yoga, stretching and breathing exercises, it calms your mind, makes it easier to fall asleep at night and increases your sleep quality.
Provides balance and flexibility
Many people include yoga in their fitness routines to gain balance and flexibility. As a matter of fact, scientific studies show that some poses in yoga have positive effects on this. Thanks to asanas, yoga helps to lengthen the muscles, which in turn provides flexibility.
In addition, poses targeting balance also greatly help balance control when done regularly.
Improves breathing
Yoga is not just about asanas. It also aims to improve your breathing with pranayama, or breathing exercises. In fact, breathing is the foundation of yoga. Because the main focus in all poses is the breath.
Strengthens
Besides flexibility, yoga also has a strengthening effect on the muscles. Certain poses in yoga are geared towards muscle building. This also means that it reduces body fat and gives it endurance.