We’ve all seen them, those girls with the mats sweating it up in a local hot yoga class. Or maybe the ones pretzeling themselves into crazy positions. You’ve probably even seen the ones chanting in a foreign language and letting out “Oms”. Maybe it made you think yoga can’t possibly be for you, or that you could never get yourself into those poses. I’m here to tell you that if you take away all of that fancy flair and really boil it down to the basics, yoga is for everyBODY.

With the rise in popularity of yoga, there has also been an increase in the study of yoga. Specifically, the study of how we can make yoga adaptable to fit multiple populations so that it can be practiced by everyone. Yoga offers a plethora of benefits to not only the body but also the mind; ultimately it really can lead to a healthier and happier you.

JKFITNESS Client: Patrick Juren

Hatha yoga is a form of yoga that emphasizes mindful movements by linking basic poses with breathing exercises and meditation techniques. Hatha yoga can lead to increases in cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility…in fact, studies found the following benefits after participating in a Hatha yoga program:

  • Participants lowered their resting heart rate by as much as 9 bpm.
  • Participants showed an increase in their V02 max (cardiovascular fitness) by practicing breathing techniques.
  • The body weight postures and flowing movements from pose to pose led to an increase in muscular strength and endurance.
  • Static holds during the postures led to an increase in flexibility and range of motion by lengthening both the muscle and connective tissues.
  • Participants improved their flexibility, specifically in the hamstring, lower back and spinal flexibility. These types of improvements can ultimately reduce pain and increase mobility.

 Yoga can also play an important role in one’s overall weight management. Research has shown that yoga can aid in weight management by lowering the metabolic rate as well as an increase metabolic efficiency. Meditation and mindfulness used during classes have a beneficial effect on mind/body awareness. This can carry out into lifestyle changes including dietary improvements.

Yoga offers a great way to destress via meditation and breathing techniques. It promotes mindfulness and allows you to accept things that happen without attachments or reaction, this leads to stress reduction and an improvement in emotional stability. Meditation techniques are also beneficial in reducing stress as they typically include breathing techniques which reduce sympathetic activity and settle the nervous system. This can all lead to a reduction in depression, sleep disturbances, an increase in quality of life and an overall more healthy and positive outlook on life.

Yoga can be adapted for everyone. All people can benefit from yoga, especially those within special populations, to include those with disease, chronic pain, pregnant women, elderly individuals and the overweight to obese. Modifications of poses can be taught so that you’ll still reap the full benefits of each pose but also make it more accessible for you. Props such as yoga blocks, straps and bolsters are also a great addition to yoga. They can assist you in getting into poses that normally you wouldn’t be able to do.

Whether you are new to yoga or already an avid yogi, there are sure to be ways to enhance your practice. Private and small group settings offer a great way to get the adaptations and attention you desire for your yoga needs. So roll out your mat, connect with your breath and discover your full potential through yoga.

Namaste.

Article Written by:
Kimberly Black, 200YT
Health & Fitness Professional
JKFITNESS, LLC
www.jk-fit.com