Here are 6 benefits to practicing yoga.

1. Yoga improves strength
Yoga and strength training are not often equated. You don’t need to be a Mr. Olympia to reap the benefits of strength train.

Yoga poses are two of the five best exercises for strength and balance [1]. Yoga poses are two of the best for balance and strength. [2]

2. Yoga improves flexibility
As we age our muscles and joints become more rigid and less flexible. It doesn’t take a scientific study or experiment to show this. Research is as simple as trying to tie your show laces, scratch your back, or put on socks.

Yoga offers many stretches that stretch our legs, hips and shoulders. These stretches have been shown to increase muscle flexibility and joint mobility. Yoga has been shown to reduce osteoarthritis pain. [3]

3. Yoga can help you balance your life
Balance is essential to be able to continue the activities you love, whether it’s hiking, gardening, or biking. It helps to avoid falling.

You’ll be able to see how yoga can help you balance in a tree pose or a headstand.

4. Yoga is good for the heart
Research has shown that yoga may lower your heart rate and ease your symptoms of heart disease.

Yoga has similar benefits to brisk walking and other cardio exercises.

5. Yoga is good for your bones
Lower bone density is a problem for people in their 50s and beyond. This could lead to osteoporosis if not addressed. Yoga exercise, especially for women over 50, has been shown to increase bone density and lower the risk of developing osteoporosis. One study found that yoga can be done for as little as 12 minutes per day to reverse osteoporotic bone loss.

6. Yoga can reduce anxiety and sharpen the mind
Traditional yoga was used as a preparation for meditation. Yoga was traditionally used to prepare for meditation.

Yoga has been proven to decrease stress, anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and increase overall well-being. You’ll immediately see the benefits of savasana.

How do you get started?

It is a good idea to start by taking a beginner yoga class with a qualified instructor. This will allow you to practice each pose correctly and avoid injury.

A yoga class should include all aspects of the practice, including breathing, meditation and poses. This will maximize the mental, physical and cardiovascular benefits of yoga.

It is important to inform your instructor if you have any conditions such as a sore back or arthritis. An instructor who is skilled in teaching will be able modify poses to prevent injury or unnecessary strain.