Today I’m going to share with you some of the incredible everyday benefits you can expect to see from your yoga practice!
Yoga is undoubtedly one of the most accessible ways to get fit, strong and flexible. And generally westerners view it as a great form of exercise. Which it of course it is, but the truth is that this ancient practice is really not just about postures, it’s a way of life.
‘Yoga means union—the union of body with consciousness and consciousness with the soul. Yoga cultivates the ways of maintaining a balanced attitude in day-to-day life and endows skill in the performance of one’s actions.’ ~B.K.S. Iyengar
Yogic philosophy is deeply routed in spiritual tradition but don’t be fooled into thinking that it’s not for you! There are innumerable benefits to starting yoga. One of the most surprising? How it can positively affect your outlook on everyday life.
Enhance the everyday, with yoga!
1. More Confidence
When it comes to dealing with how we feel about ourselves, we typically judge more harshly than others ever would. We lack the compassion and understanding that we reserve for our nearest and dearest. It’s a vicious, self-perpetuating cycle but yoga can actually help break it! Yoga tackles our self-critical ideologies by allowing us to observe our state of mind from afar. This helps to reinforce the notion that we are not responsible for our problems and that they are not necessarily a reality. Practicing yoga also encourages us to let go of any unrealistic expectations to be ‘perfect’. Yoga is far from competitive – it is personal journey towards self-acceptance and enlightenment.
2. Get Healthy
Yoga is a great way to maintain a healthy everyday lifestyle. Regular practice has been shown to reduce weight, lower risk of heart disease, balance hormones, strengthen bones and steady blood sugar levels to name just few. The physical benefits are indeed tremendous but yoga will also encourage and motivate you to make healthier choices in your day-to-day life. By going to your favourite class you will become more aware of your body, how it moves and feels everyday. This will instil a natural desire to look after yourself, helping you stick to your goals and achieve great things!
3. Boost Immunity
There is so much ground-breaking research coming to light about immune health lately. But one of the most interesting discoveries is the connection between our immune system and brain. Yoga along with the practice of mindfulness meditation actually has the ability to strengthen our natural defences. Incredibly, it was found to reduce inflammation and immune cell degeneration. So, if like me, you’re looking to avoid those nasty catching cold and flu symptoms remember to take a step back from your busy life and take a step onto the yoga mat instead!
4. Find Inner Peace
Probably one of the most radical everyday changes you will notice when you take up yoga are the powerful calming effects. The concept of inner peace might sound a little bit ‘airy-fairy’. However, all we are really referring to here is a state of being content and connected with the present moment. This yogic principle has garnered the popularised western term ‘mindfulness’ which is actually derived from the Buddhist word ‘Sati’. However, Yoga helps to develop this greater sense of awareness by bringing your attention to the breath. As you begin to practice this technique you will liberate yourself from an egoic mindset, unfolding a great deal of peace and happiness in your everyday life.
5. Better Relationships
“ Only when we deepen our appreciation of ourselves, and what we have to offer, can we begin to truly appreciate and truly support and love another. When you begin a relationship with someone it is the relationship with your self that continues to deepen as you learn to share your space with a partner.” ~ Ravi Singh
With all the positive influence yoga has on mindset it is simply natural that it will impact your relationships as well. The sensitivity you bring to your relationships is as integral as that you bring to the mat. Greater awareness will develop understanding and trust with your partner, friends and family members. Yoga also teaches us to lead with an open heart. Ensuring that we experience connections on a deeper level and are able to be present in our life and practice.
How has yoga changed your life? Share your experience in the comments below!
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