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“Yoga is the fountain of youth. You are only as young as your spine is flexible.” – Bob Harper.

Yoga is one of the best things you can do for yourself – it is good for the mind, body, and soul. This is what yoga practitioners, known as yogis, have been preaching for hundreds of years, and now science is finally starting to catch up. Fortunately for you, you don’t need to be an expert to reap the many benefits that yoga provides.

Just a few simple poses a day can offer the following health benefits…

Increases Flexibility.

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of yoga is the increased flexibility. When you first begin practicing yoga, touching your toes may seem like a long shot, but before you know it you will be hitting the backbend like a pro.

Strengthens Bones.

As we have talked about before, weight-bearing exercises are one of the most effective ways to improve your bone strength. Many poses in yoga require you to support the weight of your entire body with just one leg, or using nothing but your arms.

Improves Blood Flow.

If you have poor circulation in specific parts of your body, there is a yoga pose to improve blood flow to that area. Yoga can also thin your blood by cutting the number of clot-promoting proteins, which can ultimately reduce your risk for a heart attack.

Lowers Blood Pressure.

If you suffer from hypertension, the relaxing effect of yoga can help keep your blood pressure at a healthier level.

Enhances Mood.

Studies have shown that yoga is an effective way to reduce depression and boost your body’s production of feel-good endorphins.

Promotes Brain Function.

A recent study found that after only twenty minutes of yoga, people performed better on brain functioning tests, measuring both speed and accuracy.

Pain Relief.

Yoga can help relieve some of your aches and pains, especially in your neck and spine. A lot of this pain is caused by poor posture and a sedentary lifestyle, both of which yoga can correct.

While yoga can help fix some of your chronic pains, it is not an overnight process. If you are in need of more immediate pain relief in your spine, neck, hips, or anywhere else, turn to the experts at Orthopaedic Specialty Group. As southern Connecticut’s largest orthopedic practice, our team of expert physicians can get you feeling better as quickly and safely as possible. Visit our website for more information or book an appointment by calling (203) 337-2600.