September is National Yoga Month
You probably know someone you would consider a "yogi." They love yoga - like really love it - and talk about how wonderful they feel after a class. They wear yoga pants for actual yoga. We know these people, too; in fact, we welcome them to their practice every day at the YMCA. Through these classes, we know participants may experience a wide variety of mental and physical health benefits.
September is National Yoga Month, so we are exploring some of what science has to say about yoga. Spoiler: while the research is relatively young, there is no disputing that yoga enhances wellness and mind-body connection. Here are four reasons we think you should try a yoga class at the Y:
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Physical benefits of yoga include increased strength, balance, and flexibility
Holding isometric poses for time can help build muscular strength, while various yoga poses improve balance and flexibility. Why is this important? Balance and flexibility matter beyond the yoga studio: both are key components of functional fitness that improve quality of day-to-day life (Think about the flexibility needed to rotate in the car and hand something to a child in a car seat or stretching up on one foot and balancing while you reach for something high in the pantry.)
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Yoga increases bone density and health
Weight bearing exercise, like yoga, force you to work against gravity. This creates stronger bones and helps ward off osteoporosis. Bone health is important for people of all ages and body types.
- Yoga can help manage stress
According to the National Institutes of Health, scientific evidence shows that yoga supports stress management, mental health, and mindfulness. No, you aren't imagining that your friend is truly more zen after a class.
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Yoga can help you find a community
Attending yoga classes at the YMCA regularly can help you build familiarity and friendship with like-minded people in your community. Additionally, you become connected to yogis through the world as you learn the language, discipline, and benefits of this ancient practice.
If you are new to exercise or have any health concerns, we recommend you consult your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen. When you're ready, we encourage you to check out our schedule of classes at the YMCA and roll out your mat for some strengthening, relaxing, centering yoga. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram - throughout the month, some of our certified yoga instructors will share yoga poses for all levels that you can do anywhere!
