A yoga body isn’t just about being flexible; it can actually improve memory, heart, and bone health, as shared by Anna Magee. In the UK, people are spending an impressive £790 million annually on yoga classes and equipment. Yoga’s popularity might seem trendy with all the new styles like rage yoga, paddle-board yoga, and even dog yoga, but its true benefits are backed by science.
Researchers from UCLA discovered that a three-month program of yoga and meditation was more effective than traditional memory exercises at reducing age-related brain changes. Another study found that it could help improve sleep for breast cancer survivors.
When Lucy Edge, a former advertising executive, was depressed, she chose yoga over prescribed antidepressants. She took a six-month break, traveled to India, and returned happier and more content. This experience inspired her to author three books about yoga and create Yoga Meds, a resource highlighting over 300 clinical trials showcasing yoga’s health benefits, from arthritis to insomnia and obesity.
Here are some ways yoga could benefit your health and tips on getting started:
For better memory, UCLA’s research involving adults over 55 found that 12 weeks of yoga and meditation significantly improved spatial and visual memories, reduced depression and anxiety, and increased resilience to stress.
For heart health, a review published in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology in 2014 suggested that yoga could lower heart disease risk as much as conventional exercises like brisk walking. It helps reduce stress, a major contributor to heart disease, and can improve blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight.
To get started, try gentle yoga styles like Hatha or Iyengar, especially if you have specific health concerns like back pain. Talk to your doctor to see if you’re eligible for subsidized yoga classes through an exercise referral scheme.
Choosing the right yoga mat is also important. Consider where you’ll use it, how portable it needs to be, your height, and the mat’s thickness for joint support. For instance, the eco-friendly Elephant Cork Yoga mat from Valka Yoga offers durability, padding, and comfort for your joints. It’s made from renewable and recyclable materials and comes with a carrying strap and a one-year warranty.
If you’re new to yoga or looking to deepen your practice, props like yoga blocks can make a big difference. They help with stability and provide extra length if you’re struggling with poses.
Whether you’re new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, there are various styles to explore:
– Yin or Restorative yoga for relaxation, often practiced with blankets and cushions.
– Vinyasa Flow for an energetic, dance-like sequence linking breath to movement.
– Iyengar yoga, which emphasizes precise alignment and uses props.
– Anusara yoga, a modern style that focuses on alignment with flowing movements.
– Yoga Therapy, specifically designed to help with injury or illness.
Yoga can truly enhance your well-being, both physically and mentally.