Yoga has some amazing benefits, both physically and mentally. I had read all the articles about those benefits, and wanted to give it a try for years, but could never find a class that fit my schedule. A few weeks ago, my mother came across the Yoga Lily here in Clifton Park and we started a session. We are both LOVING the practice there.
So, why should you try yoga?
- Stress Reduction. Many studies have shown that regular yoga practice can reduce anxiety and stress, and I can add my own testimony to that. I am a pretty high strung person and even I walk out of there every Tuesday completely relaxed!
- Improved Flexibility/Mobility. Each session you find that the pose is a little easier than the time before, and that you can get deeper into it, or hold it longer. Many of the yoga poses gently stretch the muscles, giving you flexibility, and move the joints in ways we don’t normally move them during the course of the day, giving you mobility. Both of these will help prevent injuries.
- Strength. You don’t just need to use weights to build strength. Yoga poses use body weight as resistance and require strength to perform them. And it uses more muscles at once, unlike weight training where most exercises focus on a smaller set of muscles. The stabilizer muscles that are used for balance are engaged. Particularly the core muscles, which keep the spine stable and can help prevent back injury.
- Chronic Condition Management. Yoga has been found to help with a variety of chronic conditions – heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, insomnia, pain.
- It’s Fun. Taken with the right instructor, yoga is not only relaxing, but fun! At the Yoga Lily, Pam has us chanting and dancing and you can’t help but to be infected by her enthusiasm and enjoyment.
There are now a number of yoga schools here in Clifton Park, in addition to the classes held at the Y and other gyms. Check them out, see what types of classes they have, and find a practice that will help you meet your goals. Then you, too, can see the above benefits!