We know yoga’s good for us, but do we really know why?

With 50% off their Yoga Spa Day on 28th July and 9th September 2018 at Greenwoods Hotel and Spa in Essex, wellbeing experts at White Calm Retreats give an insight into the meaningful ways that yoga can have a positive effect on your health and wellbeing.

1) Pain, back pain, and better posture

Courtesy of the amount of time we spend at a desk, amongst other lifestyle habits, chronic and acute pain is a common problem. However, often it can be managed and sometimes eradicated through regular yoga. Many students report back pain as their primary reason for going to yoga as various practices can help reduce spinal compression, relieve muscles and help the overall alignment of the body.

2) Stress reduction

Stress is another prevalent issue for many of us, but moving tension out the body, de-stressing, meditation and breath control reduces stress considerably. In essence, the concentration required during practice focuses your attention on the now and helps take you away from your problems.

3) Parasympathetic nervous system

In most forms of exercise, the sympathetic nervous system kicks in, giving you that fight-or-flight sensation – a.k.a, the adrenaline response. Yoga does the opposite and stimulates the parasympathetic system, also known as the “relaxing system”. This helps to lower blood pressure and slow the pace of your breathing, which helps relaxation and healing.

4) Blood pressure, circulation and a strong heart

Consistent practice decreases blood pressure through better circulation and oxygenation. It lowers the pulse rate, which means your heart is strong enough to pump more blood with fewer beats. By transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout your body, yoga creates healthier organs, skin, and brain. A lower heart rate and improved oxygenation to the body brings higher cardiovascular endurance as well and lower risk of heart disease.

5) Respiratory fitness and strong immunity

A lower respiratory rate means lungs working more efficiently. This is achieved through yoga’s controlled breathing exercises and effect on improved fitness. It has also been linked with a stronger immune system.

6) Healthy organs

Yoga massages internal organs, helping the body to prevent disease. Experienced practitioners become better attuned to their body and recognise the first signs of issues, which help a quicker response to head off disease. Gastrointestinal functions are often greatly improved as well.

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