Yoga and Stress Relief

Stress. Something that many people experience and something that can be very damaging. Fortunately, Yoga can help.

Stress can be caused by things like work or family issues, poor sleep habits, poor diet, poor lifestyle choices, illness, pain and hormone imbalances. Interestingly, stress can also be the cause of these issues.

Stress can activate the sympathetic nervous system, causing one to be in a state of “fight or flight”, which is not a healthy state for the body to be in on a regular basis. There are many ways Yoga can help with stress reduction, here are a few:

• Yoga helps to put the body and mind in a state of ease, allowing many of the causes of stress – and also the symptoms of stress – to be addressed.
• Certain pranayama (breathing) techniques can help to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which counteracts the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. Breathing deeply brings in more oxygen and more prana (energy), allowing us to feel more vibrant. Pranayama also quiets the mind and allows us to think more clearly.
• Yoga is a mindful practice. Being mindful allows us to live in the present rather than worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, both of which can cause stress.
• Stretching relieves tension in the body and can also release endorphins, or “feel good” hormones.
• Yoga improves posture. When you are able to sit or stand tall, you just feel better physically and mentally.
• Yoga moves our joints and strengthens and stretches muscles, allowing greater ease of movement. When we move better, we feel better.
• Yoga can help with insomnia and can improve quality of sleep in general. When we are well-rested, we are better able to handle the challenges life throws at us.

These are just a few of the wonderful things Yoga can do for you. See you on your mat! 🙏❤️