Yoga science is a spiritual discipline that has existed for years in Indian philosophy. The science of yoga is to unleash the spiritual and mental powers of an individual. It is not just confined to fitness exercise it is a complete way of living that can completely transform both outer and inner self. It is not only an art but a science as well that holds the ability for better functioning of mind and body. It is applied science not just a system of beliefs. It elevates the consciousness of the mind by applying the principles of psychology. It develops coordination and balance between mind, body, and soul that develops a mutual harmony among them.
Yoga science deals with the evolution of humanity, from self realization yoga covers all aspects of a human’s existence. The enormous health benefits of yoga include improved brain functions, a strong immune system, improved nervous system functioning, and strength. A stronger body, calm mind, reduced stress, and increased happiness are long term results of regular yoga practice. Yoga is not a vague concept. It is an applied science that consists of a systematized collection of laws to arrive at a definite result.
Physical Benefits of Yoga
- Reduction in weight
- Improves flexibility
- Helps in toning and building muscle strength
- Boosts energy level
- Improves immunity
- Stops aging
- Improves body postures
- Maintains blood pressure
- Improves focus and brings clarity to thoughts
Mental Benefits of Yoga
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Boosts confidence
- Better sleep
- Fights depression
- Builds mental strength
- Induces positivity
- Provides peace of mind
- Better respiratory system
The Science Behind Yoga and Stress
It is very effective in reducing stress and maintaining a balance in the body. Regular yoga practice can increase focus on elements that get overlooked. The two parts of the brain namely the emotional and logical brain play a key role in stress. In our body, there is a particular route along with which stress response and relaxing signals travel. These switches can be physically manipulated and turned on/off.
Yoga trains this entire circuit at two levels. Our logical brain gets activated when we hold a posture or try to balance. When we bend forward our relaxation signals are being turned on through the switches in our neck. Yoga reduces the level of cortisol hormone which is responsible for releasing stress hormones in the body. It has shown improvement in depression and anxiety. Pranayama practices within yoga cleanse the body and relax it. The deep breaths in pranayama increase the oxygen level and calm the nervous system.
Improves Quality of Life
Yoga has gained popularity and recognition around the globe due to its enormous benefits. Although being of Indian origin Yoga has been widely practiced in many countries. The breathing exercises in yoga lead to an increase in the flow of oxygen that provides energy to the whole body. The inner peace experienced while doing yoga and meditation makes your life way better. Better sleep is also the result of yoga which relaxes both mind and body. The body does not feel drained out anymore.
It retains and boosts the energy level in the body. A rapid weight loss is observed by regular Yoga practice. It leads to better sleep, a relaxed mind and body, and a feeling of self-realization. Yoga has provided proven benefits in various critical illnesses too. It provides a physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy and fit body. All these benefits combined lead to an overall improvement in the quality of life.
Yoga Alters the Chemical Structure of Your Brain
Yoga has unbelievable effects on the brain and central nervous system. The cerebral cortex is the part of the brain that is associated with higher learning. Yoga thickens this layer and helps us to learn new things. Yoga pose or asana requires controlled entry, holding, and release. The concentration and stillness required for the same take strong prefrontal cortex activity.
Regular yoga practice enables one to maintain self-control in most stressful settings. The level of brain chemicals like GABA, serotonin, and dopamine are increased by Yoga. These are responsible for feelings of relaxation, contentment, and also promote a sense of well-being. Yoga has been very effective in reducing and healing anxiety and depression.
Yoga Therapy
It is a type of therapy that uses yoga postures, breathing exercises, stretches, and meditation to improve health. It is used by many mainstream medical practices as it aids quick recovery from stress-induced conditions and contributes to overall health improvement. The growing benefits of yoga therapy in recent years has resulted in the rapid growth of making it an integrated part of health care services in hospitals.
Children with special needs and autism are experiencing huge benefits from yoga therapy. A broad range of physical ailments is being treated with great success. Yoga therapy has no barrier to age and geographical boundaries. Yoga Therapy promises happiness, peace of mind, clarity of thoughts, and better physical health.
Could Reduce Chronic Pain
Chronic pain can be due to any possible cause right from injuries, fibromyalgia, migraine to arthritis. Chronic is quite common in many people. Most of them even feel that chronic pain will never fully resolve. But it has been witnessed that mindful yoga and meditation can improve the structure of the body that supports the process of healing. It leads to significant improvement in the perception of pain, functional capacity, and mood of the patient.
The increased flow of oxygen improves energy levels and provides a sense of well-being. The combination of physical movement and breath awareness helps to release muscle tension in the body. The stretches done in yoga decreases the intensity of muscle pain. It is a very effective practice in the long run.
Yoga is a complete mind-body and exercises practice. It combines movements, stretches, meditation, breathing, and strengthens muscles. One major thing that sets yoga apart from other exercises is its proper balance between both physical and mental health. This year-old practice is gaining importance day by day. Regular practice of yoga can surely do wonders for anyone. It can completely transform the feeling of sadness, fear, and frustration.
