I can’t tell you how many people I recommend yoga to. The benefits are numerous. You can do it in your home, office, or at the gym. If you engage in any time of unhealthy behavior (drugs or alcohol) or have anxiety, yoga is a wonderful tool to help you through the rough times. Another wonderful thing about yoga is that is individual. It’s all about what you can do for yourself, and accepting of what you are able to do in the moment. It’s not a competition.

  1. Spiritual-you can feel the connection with others when you are all in a room together, its quiet and you are all trying to achieve something at the same time. Everyone is mindful and in the moment. You may feel a connection to a higher power while engaging in it.
  2. Mind body connection-while doing poses you are focusing on what you are doing. There is no room for any chatter in your head, as you have to focus on the poses that you are doing. If you aren’t paying attention, you won’t be able to hold the poses. It also takes mental strength and stamina.
  3. Relaxation-because you are quiet and focusing on the moment, there is no time for anxiety or fear. Anxiety and fear reside in the past and in the future. When you are focusing on what you are doing in the moment, there is no time to think about the past or the future. Breathing is also a part of yoga. As you slow down your breathing, your heart rate will also go down.
  4. Balance-this is something everyone can benefit from. If we have better balance we are less likely to fall or injure ourselves.
  5. Flexibility-if you have a sedentary job, your arms or legs may start to feel stiff. Just doing a few simple yoga stretches can help prevent pain or discomfort. As we get older we need to continue to work on our flexibility or our movements will eventually become restricted.
  6. Strength-People would be surprised to learn how difficult yoga could be. Some of the poses are very difficult, and at times you will find your muscles shaking. This certainly isn’t to turn you off from trying yoga, as you can start as a beginner and progress to the more difficult poses.

It’s a healthy way to cope vs. turning to alcohol, drugs, or self-harming behavior. Many people who do yoga have said they feel wonderful afterwards. They feel calm, rested and at peace. Some even say they feel like they have just had a full body massage. If you aren’t comfortable going to a gym, you can do yoga online at www.doyogawithme.com,

If stress management is something you need help with, don’t hesitate to call 713-304-6554.

Take care,

Debbie