Why Yoga May Be the Key to Better Health
By Genevieve Cunningham
You've definitely heard of yoga by now. There probably isn't a single adult in the entire country that hasn't heard of this ancient -- and yet somehow modern -- practice. Yoga is both a tried and true exercise and a trendy workout. It fills a lot of gaps. But even with its wide ranging appeal, there are a lot of people who have never given it a try. They've never been to a class. Never tried a pose. Never given it a fair shake. But what if yoga is actually the key to better health? If you're looking for a way to improve your body and health, take a look at why yoga may be the perfect choice.
It Challenges You Physically
Yoga might look easy from the outside, but once you try it for yourself, you discover a whole new world of difficulty. Yoga is hard! It challenges every muscle in the body. It forces you to hold your own body weight, and then move that body weight to a new challenging position. It's no joke! But because it also deeply stretches the muscles, it's a challenge that feels good simultaneously. If you want a great workout that actually encourages your muscles to take shape, yoga may be just what you need.
It's Great for the Mind
Along with being a physically challenging workout, yoga is also hard on the mind. Each movement and flow from one to another is deliberate. It has a rhythm that encourages self-discipline and patience. And considering most of us are living in a busy, constantly on-the-go world, this patience requires serious effort. The good news is that most people who stick with yoga and practice it over a long period of time experience a sense of calm that stays with them through everyday life.
It Lasts Your Whole Life
Yoga is hard, but it's also gentle. Strange, right? But this is a phenomenon that you have to experience for yourself. The good thing about this strange combination is that it means yoga is good for every person of every age. If it's gentle and still pushes you toward better health, you can start doing it right now, and then keep the practice for the rest of your life. It's good for kids, adults, and even those in the golden years. If you like the idea of consistency -- of something that you can enjoy for a lifetime -- yoga is an excellent choice for your workout routine.
If you haven't tried yoga yet, maybe it's time. Considering its age and popularity, maybe there's something to it! Find a class, go online, or follow along in a book. With some time and patience, you may find that yoga changes your mental and physical health and your quality of life as well.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Wichita, Kans.