Mindful Movement
How Yoga Can Directly Enhance Your Wellbeing by Trix aka The Sleep Yogi
You might have heard that yoga is a mind and body practice. But what does that really mean, and how can it improve your mental and physical wellbeing? Let's dive into the benefits of yoga and explore how this ancient practice can positively impact your life.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Improves Mental Health
Yoga requires you to be in the present moment (try standing on one leg and not concentrating!). This practice gives you a mental break from all the other stresses of your daily life (think work, kids, chores, family and friend relationships etc). By prioritising you, even just for 10 minutes, you can face the rest of your day with renewed mental clarity and energy.
Relieves Stress
Just one minute of focused breathwork can lower your heart rate and reduce the stress hormones circulating in your body. Considering we often operate at a continuous low level of stress throughout the day, taking these moments to turn down your stress levels is incredibly beneficial for both your physical and mental health. A calmer mind leads to calmer reactions!
Aids Sleep
Ever gotten into bed so tired you think you'll drift off immediately, only to find that sleep becomes elusive? This is commonly referred to as being "tired but wired." A simple, slow practice of yoga, which includes exhale-lengthening breathwork, can help your mind wind down and your body switch into a state where sleep is more likely.
Improves Brain Function
Is there nothing yoga doesn’t help with?! Let’s add improving brain function and neuroplasticity to the list. In other words, your brain will be healthier and function better in the long term!
Makes You Happier!
The physical act of movement produces feel-good hormones, leaving you happier and more positive about the day ahead. Why not try adding a short yoga practice to your morning routine to see the effects for yourself?
Physical Health Benefits
Builds Strength and Bone Density
We start losing muscle mass from the age of 30, which can lead to reduced mobility, lower metabolism, and an increased risk of osteoporosis. How does yoga help? Classes that hold postures for longer lengths of time build muscle and strength in the body.
Improves Flexibility, Mobility, & Balance
Yoga has been shown to reduce aches and pains throughout the body by increasing mobility and flexibility. Who doesn’t want to move through their day with more ease? Balance is crucial for everyday movements, from washing the dishes to getting dressed. Unfortunately, we can lose our ability to balance as we age, but a regular yoga practice can help you rebuild it.
Helps Maintain Good Posture
Yoga can be the perfect antidote to days spent at a computer or evenings spent binge-watching Netflix. Maintaining good posture has been linked to decreased neck and back pain, better digestion, and increased energy levels.
Releases Tension & Aids Recovery
Ever end a stressful day with a tense neck and shoulders? The blend of movement and breathwork found in yoga releases physical tension that builds up in the body, helping you relax and unwind more easily.
Overall Health
In a number of studies, yoga was found to reduce prolonged inflammation, thereby reducing the risks of inflammatory-linked illnesses such as diabetes, Crohn’s disease, heart disease, and arthritis, while also reducing chronic pain in the body.
As you can see the combination of mental and physical benefits of yoga can create a powerful impact on your overall wellbeing. Whether you're seeking to improve your mental clarity, reduce stress, enhance your physical strength, or maintain good posture, yoga offers a comprehensive approach to health that integrates mind and body. By incorporating a regular yoga practice into your routine, you can enjoy a happier, healthier life.
Meet Our New Expert Contributor: Trix
We are excited to introduce our new expert contributor, Trix, also known as The Sleep Yogi. Trix is a yoga teacher and wellness coach with a passion for helping you find moments in your busy day to move and unwind. Combining movement and breath, her classes are designed to be done at home, so you can energise or de-stress as your life demands.
Join Our Four-Day Yoga Challenge
Ready to experience the benefits of yoga for yourself? Join our free four-day Yoga Challenge in The Retreat. Each 10-minute or less class requires no equipment and is suitable for all skill levels. It's the perfect way to start your yoga journey and see firsthand how it can enhance your mental and physical wellbeing.
