Yoga for the Holiday Season

By Donna Stark

If you have been thinking about joining a yoga class, you may want to take the plunge and sign up right now. Why? Well, for many people, the holiday season screams for a different type of fitness routine. It calls for a fitness routine that doesn't only burn all the unwanted calories consumed, but one that will also reduce stress and help heal the body. And that's exactly what yoga will provide! Take a look at why this type of workout could be perfect for you.

Reduces Stress

The pressure to meet deadlines, pick the perfect gifts, cook the most amazing meals, and travel to see loved ones is great. It's a burden that can increase the levels of stress and anxiety you must deal with on a daily basis, which makes yoga a perfect choice to go with. With its guided movements and deep breathing, it's easy to see how yoga can reduce cortisol and help the body relax.

Builds Muscle

Just because yoga helps your body to relax, doesn't mean it isn't also helping you to build and strengthen muscle. In yoga, you are lifting your own body weight, and although that may not seem as effective as lifting those weights in the gym, there is less of a chance of you getting hurt during this busy time of year. But don't worry. The more you progress and the more challenging poses you hold, the more work your muscles will be engaged in. Building muscle this way may take time, but it is totally worth it!

Improves Flexibility

You may not think that flexibility is a big deal, but life is a lot easier when you have it. Good flexibility helps to reduce your risk of injuries, improve your posture, and strengthen your stability and balance. It means you can dress and shower with ease, reach for items in the kitchen, or clean your home without any help. It is necessary if you want to maintain your independence well into the later years of your life. But for now, increased flexibility is exactly what you need when hanging up all your holiday decorations. 

Go Ahead and Sign Up!

There's never a bad time to join a yoga class, but if you want to reap the most benefits, the best time to join is now! Whether you sign up for a class, practice it at home, do it alone, or ask a friend or two to join, there is no doubt that yoga will definitely transform both your physical and mental health this season. All you need to do is start!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Garner, N.C.