Why Yoga is so Much More Than Just a Workout

Yoga’s benefits are not only limited to the body but extend to the mind and the soul as well

Yoga has its origin in the Indian subcontinent; it is one of the oldest forms of healing and exercise. Now, famous worldwide for its efficiency, it gained increased popularity in the coronavirus pandemic. Read on to find out why it is much more than just a workout.

1. Mindfulness

The essence of Yoga is that one must be completely focused and present to do it correctly. When we do something with 100% concentration, it grounds us and raises a state of awareness and mindfulness. Mindfulness, as described by Buddhists, means our brain to be aware and active. Being mindful increases the quality of our lives and those around us by giving us clarity and a sense of right and wrong. 

2. Boosts Self Image

Yoga boosts self-acceptance and self-esteem. As one concentrates on what his/her body can do and is capable of. When doing yoga one can feel him/herself getting stronger and better than the day before. To concentrate on who we are and our bodies are instead of focusing on what we wish them to be. Yoga allows us to get in touch with our inner self. While one lies in savasana after a tiring workout he/she can feel the energy flowing through them while finding a sense of gratitude for it. This is why Yoga is used to treat anorexia and other eating disorders.

3. Improves Mental Health

It is now scientifically proven that Yoga incorporated with meditation can do wonders for mental health. Not only is it good for calming down the brain but makes it sharper too! Yes, Yoga improves memory, thickens the hippocampus (associated with language and learning) and the cerebral cortex (associated with information processing). An extensive study proved that people practicing yoga showed a slower decline in the grey matter as opposed to non-practitioners. It also helps in curing depression, anxiety, and loneliness in the old and young alike. Deep breathing exercises help in increasing the flow of oxygen to the brain. 

4. Prevention and cure of diseases

Not only does yoga tone the body but also improves its inner functioning. Practicing yoga improves the circulatory, digestive, nervous, respiratory, muscular, and skeletal systems of the body. Thus, protecting from various diseases like obesity, inflammation, constipation, heart attack, and many more.

Not only this but Yoga is also proven to cure many diseases like asthma, arthritis, diabetes, etc. Pranayama cures constipation, hypertension, and depression. Some asanas to cure various diseases are-

Back pain – Ustrasana, Paschimottanasana

Stress – Adho mukha svanasana, Bālāsana

High Bp – Vajrasana, Ardha matsyendrasana

5. Yoga for sleep

It is best to do Yoga early in the morning, but a small pre-bedtime routine can help you sleep better.  Deep stretches and mindful breathing will relax your body and concentrate the mind. Some bedtime asanas to stretch and destress your body after a long day’s work are Halasana, Supta Baddha Konasana, Supta Matsyendrasana, etc. 

In Summary,

We have now established that yoga is much more than just a workout. It is a union of the mind, body, and soul. 

Are you a Yogi too? If not then did this article motivate you to become one? Share this article with those you know get them started too on the cosmic path of Yoga.