The Benefits of Yoga

The word yoga has been derived from Sanskrit whichWhile practicing yoga, one may also do some
basically means union between the mind, body andbreathing exercises which would help in supporting the
spirit. Yoga refers to meditative practices in Hinduism,proper functioning of the lungs and raising the oxygen
Buddhism and Jainism and is known to make the bodylevels. People suffering from asthma can also do this.
able to function well.For weight watchers who constantly worry about the
One of the major benefits of yoga is that it is knownextra pounds, yoga helps in controlling weight by
to be a stress reliever. By practicing yoga, the level ofreducing cortisol levels which in turn help to reduce
stress hormones, blood pressure and heart rate areexcess calories and stress.
decreased to a great extent and maintained. It alsoAnother amazing benefit of practicing yoga includes
provides relief from conditions such as those ofthe inner peace and joy that results. Yoga helps in
depression, insomnia, asthma and fatigue. The cells inincreasing awareness and appreciation about the
the body get nourished as blood circulation in the bodypresent moment, and helps the person to reach peace
is increased by yoga.from within.
For people who are suffering from auto-immunePeople who have just begin with yoga; the
diseases such as cancer, yoga is highly beneficial as itimprovement in their flexibility would be quite noticeable.
helps to reduce the pain that is experienced to a greatYoga postures help a lot in improving one's flexibility
extent. It lowers the pain, and also reduces stress orand plasticity, as an individual becomes better at trying
depression that a person may experience, sufferingnew positions and flexing muscles which seemed
from an illness such as cancer.difficult earlier.