People come to yoga for so many reasons. Perhaps the perceived flexibility and mobility benefits to be had – maybe better sleep. I thought I’d summarise the benefits here – it would be interesting to see why most people start their adventure into the world of yoga though.
To improve flexibility – a physical benefit which may come as a result of a long-term practice.
Better sleep – almost immediate effect with the right practice at the right time
Selfcare – all time spent doing something for yourself is good
Anxiety – yoga movements and breathing are shown to be helpful in anxiety. May be advisable to consult a doctor if symptoms are long term.
To help with back pain – Dru Yoga for a Healthy Back is shown to reduce chronic back pain. Consult a trained yoga teacher. Not all yoga movements will give this benefit.
To help with menopause – both high intensity and slow yoga will be of benefit.
Pregnancy and post-partum – consult a yoga teacher trained in this area – enormous benefits to be had.
Social aspect – a regular class with a regular group will provide this benefit
Cancer care – a specialist group can be enormously beneficial for those undergoing and recent recipients of cancer treatment.
As a route to meditation – Yoga movements are a well-documented route to meditation practices.
More athletic body – yoga has physical benefits – with the more athletic variants focusing on athleticism.
Better breathing – Yoga breathing will benefit you far beyond the time within yoga practice.
Maybe I’ve missed something obvious – but there it is for today. Benefits of yoga practice.
My 2020 Story 