News & Events

[envira-gallery id=”4280″]The Reduction of Stress through Yoga

As a form of meditation originating in India thousands of years ago, Yoga has become one of the most effective low-impact exercises used to eliminate stress and anxiety, and increase relaxation in the Western World.

The benefits of Yoga are unmatched as Yoga has been proven to decrease stress and tension levels, increase strength and balance, increase flexibility, and lower blood pressure and reduce cortisol levels (Seliger, 2007). However, Yoga’s emphasis on breathing and the mind/body/ spirit connection also yields strong emotional benefits. The practice of deep and scheduled breathing during Yoga, allows the internal body to calm-down completely relax. According to the American Yoga Association, “Yoga helps you to access an inner strength that allows you to face the frustrations and challenges of everyday life” (American Yoga Association, 2015). A few yoga exercises practiced daily help to regulate the breath and relax the body by gently releasing tension from the large muscle groups, flushing all parts of the body and brain with fresh blood, oxygen, and other nutrients.

People who practice yoga frequently have reported that they are less-stressed and feel better overall due to the breathing techniques adapted during Yoga. According to the Mayo Clinic, Yoga is considered a mind-body type of complementary and alternative medicine practice. Yoga brings together physical and mental disciplines to achieve peacefulness of body and mind, helping you to relax and manage stress and anxiety (Mayo Clinic, 2015).

Feeling anxious? Work stress starting to consume you? Grab a mat and give Yoga a try! Follow this link for information regarding the variety of Yoga classes offered at the YWCA Fitness on 25^th: https://www.ywcasaskatoon.com/fitness-on-25th/class-schedule/