Benefits of Yoga

Physical Benefits of Yoga

• slows down the aging process
• prevention and therapy for illnesses such as hypertension, asthma, arthritis, diabetes, digestive disorders, chronic fatigue, arteriosclerosis, heart conditions, and varicosities
• assists in pain management
• prevents and cures back pain
• weight management through increased metabolism and improved hormonal secretions of lethargic glands, e.g. thyroid
• increases strength and flexibility
• lubricates joints, tendons, and ligaments
• massages and tones muscles
• massages and tones all internal organs of the body
• encourages perspiration and optimizes circulation resulting in detoxification and purification of the body
• improves sleep
• increases energy levels
• improves cardiovascular and respiratory efficiency
• boosts immune system
• improves posture
• improves balance and coordination
• increases endurance
• balances the nervous and endocrine systems, affecting all systems and organs of the body
• syncs the mind and body

Psychological Benefits

• mental peace and clarity
• relieves stress
• sharpens concentration and ability to focus
• develops body awareness, which then extends to awareness of thoughts and actions
• invigorating effect on mental energy and moods
• creates emotional balance that leads to optimism
• leads to zest for life

Spiritual Benefits

• diminishes pride and attachment, which in turn encourages compassion and detachment
• leads to deeper Self-knowledge (knowing about one’s true nature)
• results in a relaxed state of being that supports harmony in relationships
• develops awareness of the interplay among the physical, emotional and mental aspects of being, resulting in an awareness of more subtle levels of existence
• ultimately leads to “nlightenment”

Prenatal Yoga

• promotes physical and mental relaxation necessary for childbirth
• maximizes oxygen supply and pranic energy for mother and baby
• increases likelihood of a smooth pregnancy and childbirth by working on pelvic muscles and the reproductive system
• results in optimum blood flow and nutrient supply to developing fetus
• strengthens connection between mother and child
• meditation: counter fears and conflicts related to pregnancy and childbirth

Yoga for Kids

• helps counter pressures in school, lessons, sports
• encourages self-confidence and body awareness in a noncompetitive environment
• improves concentration, memory, and attention span
• enhances strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination
• fosters cooperation and compassion
• nourishes imagination
• improves sleep patterns
• encourages new friendships
• develops a sense of calmness and relaxation
• a different form of exercise and play that develops an understanding and respect for nature
• develops vitality and athleticism
• develops the respiratory system, thus preventing respiratory ailments common in children
• results in a strong, healthy body immune to diseases
• develops self-expression