10 Ways Yoga Actually Changes Your Body

Do you practice yoga? If so, you’re not alone. Yoga is a popular form of exercise that millions of people enjoy worldwide. But what is yoga, exactly?

Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that combines stretching and strength poses with deep breathing. The goal of yoga is to achieve a sense of inner peace and balance. Yoga has been shown to improve flexibility, strength, and overall well-being.

So, how does yoga change your body? Let’s take a look at some of the ways:

1. Yoga Increases Flexibility

If you’re not very flexible, yoga is a great way to improve your flexibility. Over time, you’ll notice that you’re able to sink deeper into each stretch and reach new poses that you couldn’t do before. This is because yoga helps to lengthen and stretch the muscles and connective tissue.

This will show  up in other areas of your life as well. You may find that you have an easier time touching your toes or picking things up off the floor.

2. Yoga Builds Muscle Strength

Although it may not seem like it, doing yoga poses can actually help to build muscle strength. This is especially true of the more challenging poses that require you to use your own body weight for resistance. By consistently practicing yoga, you’ll notice an increase in your overall muscle strength.

Over time, you’ll notice that you have more endurance in other exercises and activities that require upper body or core strength. For example, you may find it easier to do a push-up or hold a plank position for longer periods of time.

3. Yoga Improves Posture

If you have poor posture, yoga can help! By lengthening the spine and strengthening the core muscles, yoga can improve your posture. Over time, you’ll stand taller and feel more confident. This is because good posture not only looks great but also helps to prevent pain and injuries.

4. Yoga Boosts Energy Levels

Do you always feel tired? If so, yoga may be able to help. While it may seem counterintuitive, practicing yoga can actually give you more energy. This is because yoga helps to increase blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body.

With more oxygen flowing to the brain, you’ll notice that you feel more alert and awake. You may even find that you have more energy throughout the day and don’t need to rely on caffeine as much.

5. Yoga Reduces Stress Levels

If you’re constantly feeling stressed out, yoga can help to reduce your stress levels. This is because yoga promotes relaxation and mindfulness. By focusing on your breath and being present in the moment, you can let go of any stresses or worries that are on your mind.

Over time, you may find that you’re better able to handle stress in general. This is because yoga helps to train the mind to respond to stressful situations in a more calm and collected manner.

6. Yoga Improves Balance and Coordination

Yoga also helps to improve balance and coordination. This is because many of the poses require you to focus on your breath while simultaneously being aware of your body positioning. Over time, you’ll notice that you have better balance and coordination both on and off the mat.

7. Yoga Lowers Blood Pressure

If you have high blood pressure, yoga can help to lower it. This is because yoga helps to relax the body and mind, which in turn lowers blood pressure. In addition, yoga promotes deep breathing, which also helps to lower blood pressure.

8. Yoga Aids in Digestion

Yoga can also help with digestion. This is because certain yoga poses help to stimulate the digestive system and promote regularity. In addition, yoga helps to reduce stress, which can also lead to better digestion.

9. Yoga Eases Pain

If you suffer from chronic pain, yoga may be able to help ease your symptoms. This is because yoga helps to release tension in the muscles and connective tissue. In addition, yoga promotes relaxation and mindfulness, which can help to take the focus off of pain.

10. Yoga Helps You Sleep Better

If you have trouble sleeping, yoga can help. This is because yoga promotes relaxation and helps to reduce stress levels. In addition, certain yoga poses can help to ease pain and improve digestion, both of which can lead to better sleep.

So, there you have it! These are just some of the ways that yoga can change your body. If you’re looking for a way to improve your physical and mental health, give yoga a try.