10 benefits of yoga: the effects on body and mind

For many people, yoga classes have become an indispensable part of everyday life. It offers the necessary stress relief and keeps you fit at the same time. Accordingly, the popularity of the sport is growing steadily. According to numerous studies, yoga has the following positive effects on body and soul:

1. strengthening and stretching the muscles:
The variety of exercises strengthens the entire body musculature. The most diverse muscle groups are addressed, which are trained in hardly any other sport. In addition, intensive stretching increases flexibility, which relieves tension.

2. stress reduction:
In yoga, you concentrate specifically on your own body and breathing. This helps to switch off the mind and block out everyday problems. The regular practice causes you to use certain breathing techniques in stressful situations in order to gain more distance from negative thoughts. This leads to stress reduction and lasting inner peace.

3. strengthening self-awareness:
The conscious perception of one’s own body contributes to the improvement of body awareness. This has a corresponding positive effect on self-confidence.

4. positive attitude:
The breathing techniques learnt and the improved body awareness lead to a more positive attitude. In addition, yoga is the perfect training for more patience in everyday life.

5. improved sleep:
The relaxing effect of yoga has a positive influence on sleep. Stress reduction also plays a major role here. Stress is often the cause of problems falling asleep.

6. breathing exercises strengthen the nervous system:
In yoga, the autonomic nervous system is activated through breathing exercises, which suppresses the “stress nerve”. This helps to lower blood pressure and positively influences the nervous system.

7. regulation of the hormonal balance:
Hormonal balance has significant effects on the body and psyche. The autonomic nervous system controls many hormones in the body, so activation helps regulate hormone balance.

8. positive effects on heart and lungs:
The interaction of conscious breathing and consequently increased oxygen intake in combination with exercise has a positive effect on the heart and lungs. Stress reduction and lowering of blood pressure also contribute to the health of the organs. 9.

9. stimulated digestion:
Exercise is always beneficial for digestion. Deep breathing in particular supplies more blood to the digestive organs and stimulates digestion.

10. better concentration and increased performance:
Yoga can also be seen as a workout for the brain, as it requires a lot of concentration. The brain’s performance is increased and the ability to concentrate is strengthened. Thus, yoga also has a positive effect on everyday working life.