Widely practised for health and relaxation purposes, Yoga is an all-encompassing, ancient spiritual discipline which includes breathing control, meditation and the adoption of specific bodily postures. That’s all good and well, you may be thinking. But what can it do for me? Good question! Let’s take a look at some of the many benefits.
Benefits of doing Yoga
Yoga for Greater flexibility
One of the most noticeable benefits is improved flexibility. During your first class, you may struggle to touch your toes. Over time, your muscles become more and more flexible, and those impossible poses will literally be in your reach. All Yoga poses stretch and strengthen both upper body and lower body muscles, thereby increasing mobility and reducing stiffness. Some of the best poses to achieve this are Padangusthasana, Baddha Konasana and Balasana.
Better posture with Yoga
Building body awareness is one of the benefits of doing Yoga. So, if you’re practising regularly, you will soon become aware if you’re slumping or slouching, and naturally adjust your posture. Building up strength and flexibility naturally improves your posture so this discipline helps you walk taller – literally. Bharata and Iyengar Yoga specifically focus on spine alignment and posture correction.
Build core strength
One of the best ways to build core strength is through isometric exercises. On isometric exercises, Jason Jensen says: “An isometric exercise is one in which you hold your muscle in one contracted position for a given amount of time.” Power Yoga incorporates the use of isometric exercises, along with various other postures designed to strengthen your core and back. The amount of balance and flexibility you have is determined by the strength of your core.
Relieve stress with Yoga
Some of the key benefits of doing Yoga lie in the comprehensive approach it offers to wellness. Not only does it optimise your body condition, it trains your mind to shift from checklists and rushing around to getting more focused, using correct breathing techniques and the timeless art of meditation to relieve stress.
Yoga is ageless
Whether you’re a forty-something mom, a teenager or an aspiring athlete, Yoga is for you. There are various styles, so if you’re a beginner, focusing on Hatha Yoga might be advisable. Power Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga) works on increasing strength, while Bikram Yoga is more suited those wishing to eliminate toxins from their system. At any rate, no matter your age or goals, there is a Yoga discipline suited to you!
If you’re keen on honing your instruction skills, consider signing up for the Trifocus Fitness Academy Yoga Certification, where you’ll get all the knowledge you need to become an excellent Yoga Instructor. Gain invaluable knowledge of the physical and spiritual teachings of Yoga, from beginner level through advanced. Our yoga instructor course is aligned with the Yoga Teachers Fellowship of South Africa as well as the International Yoga Federation.