Like the fickle, ever-changing weather, sometimes our moods can swing from contentment to frustration. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining our mental health to keep our emotions stable. An activity with many health benefits, both physical and mental, is yoga. Originating from northern India over 5000 years ago, yoga is a form of relaxation that incorporates meditation, breath control, and flexible bodily postures. The word originates from the Sanskrit root “Yuj,” which means “to join,” and “to unite.” It was first mentioned in the Rig Veda, one of four ancient sacred Hindu texts, and was believed to result in the harmonious union between individual consciousness and universal consciousness, the mind and body, and man and nature.
Yoga provides an abundance of physical and mental health benefits. Among the physical benefits are increased flexibility and muscle strength, improved respiration, and balanced metabolism. Practicing yoga frequently can also lead to weight reduction, improved cardio and circulatory health, improved athletic endurance, and protection from injury. Aside from its physical health benefits, yoga helps significantly with mental health. The National Institutes of Health found that yoga improves one’s mental health by supporting quality sleep, stress management, mindfulness, and healthy eating. It also sharpens one’s concentration and generates mental clarity. More importantly, practicing yoga can help with the early detection of physical issues and give way to early preventative measures for one’s health. Itiah Angels for Learning (IAFL) truly cares for its supporters. For a stronger heart and mind, join our next IAFL Saturday Yoga with Lavender YogaFit event on July 9, 2022. Previous attendees have won beauty products, yoga pants, massage therapy, etc. as our thanks for participating. Register now and early here to have a better chance of winning prizes.
Sources:
https://osteopathic.org/what-is-osteopathic-medicine/benefits-of-yoga/
https://www.mea.gov.in/search-result.htm?25096/Yoga:_su_origen,_historia_y_desarrollo
https://artsandculture.google.com/story/explore-the-ancient-roots-of-yoga/rAKCRDl92CPuJg
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/9-benefits-of-yoga
Written by Kat Dinh