Yoga is a group of exercises that target the mental, physical, and spiritual well being of an individual. Its origins can be traced back to ancient India, where it was mostly practiced by the hermits. Even though it is an ancient practice, yoga has only recently received worldwide recognition. Today, it is considered as one of the most effective exercise techniques that target the outward appearance, emotional well being, and internal health all at the same time. Yoga is a complex group of mechanisms that separately target each part of the body’; there are different poses for each purpose- be it weight loss, certain ailments, or mental peace. Yoga is highly recommended for a variety of problems, but it must be remembered that, because of its very complexity, incorrect practices can lead to a host of problems. In this article, we will see how yoga impacts our lives.
Positive effects of yoga:
First of all, we will look at how yoga benefits us.
Solves digestive issues
Digestive issues are common with a major part of the population, and can escalate to serious illnesses pretty soon unless treated early. Metabolic syndrome is a pretty serious group of symptoms that can soon escalate to more serious illnesses like cardiac issues and type 2 diabetes. According to a study published on Diabetology and Metabolic Syndrome, it was indicated that people who suffer from this syndrome are benefited positively from regular practice of yoga for a year. This is because specific types of yoga helps in reducing belly fat and blood pressure, two of the most common causes of the inflammation that is the harbinger of Metabolic Syndrome.
Boosts mental health
Yoga is not just about targeting physical ailments; it is equally beneficial for mental health as well. In today’s world, most of us are beset by anxieties and stresses that can have far reaching impacts on our mental and physical health. Conclusive studies prove that practicing yoga on a daily basis helps in increasing concentration, promotes clearer and better thinking, and relieves stress. Yoga improves blood circulation in the body and to the brain, which also promotes better cognitive functions. And, by helping in reducing anxiety levels, yoga also helps to minimize the chances of stress related physical and mental problems such as cardiac issues and depression.
Increases fitness
Yoga is also extremely beneficial when it comes to improving your overall fitness levels. Strength training is highly recommended in order to maintain good health, and yoga is a proven method of achieving that goal. Certain types of yoga are extremely strenuous even though they are not apparently vigorous; asanas such as vinyasa require you to engage a huge number of muscles, which improves muscle strength. Yoga is also great for improving your flexibility; some of the poses are difficult to attain and hold unless you possess a highly flexible physique.
Negative effects of yoga:
All said and done, however, you cannot deny that there are indeed certain negative effects to yoga as well.
Internal issues
Not all yoga poses are meant for everyone. Since yoga involves moving your body in different ways, and some poses involve headstands, it might lead to a spike in blood pressure. Certain poses are best avoided if you have already been diagnosed with hypertension. You need to find the asanas that will help you deal effectively with your hypertension. Similarly, if you have glaucoma, these poses will be counter indicated for you as well, since standing on the head for some time will increase pressure behind the eye, which can complicate this condition by affecting the ocular nerves.
External injuries
Physical injury is also a real problem if yoga is not done right, just like any other form of exercise. If you push yourself too hard, such as trying out advanced yoga poses at the very beginning, that might lead to muscle strain and more serious injuries from filing over and hurting yourself. Yoga requires a lot of flexibility, and it is recommended that you gain the required amount of flexibility before attempting a pose that is considered to be an advanced one. Certain types of yoga will also be off the limits for you of you already have had some kind of an injury. For best advice, consult a practitioner.
It must be remembered that yoga is generally considered a pretty safe practice. For the first timer, there however, some complications might arise if you are a beginner and try too hard at the very first attempt, just as in any kind of exerciser regimen, because your body is not yet accustomed to the strain. Bigger health complications are very rare. However, it is always recommended that you begin practicing yoga with the help of a seasoned practitioner before moving on to trying poses out on your own.