He Yoga is a very ancient physical and mental practice that has been expanding throughout the world because of its benefits since it guarantees a firm body, a stable mind and a benevolent spirit.
It is an ancient art that has widely demonstrated that it can improve our quality of life, not only on a physical level but also on a mental and spiritual level.
It is made up of postures (asanas), relaxation (savasana), meditation (dhyana), breathing (pranayama), kriyas (cleansing), mudras (energy seals), kirtan (chanting), mantra or rituals. In addition to an exercise, for many, it is a way of life that seeks well-being, inner peace and implies a lifestyle that commits to the observation of ethical guidelines life principles and proper nutrition.
Yoga achieves the integration of movement with breathing until they stop being two separate entities and become one. Its practice becomes an extremely powerful agent of transformation that causes profound changes in our health In fact, its use is seen as a preventive or rehabilitative medicine because it stimulates metabolic and anabolic processes and improves energy circulation, oxygenating the body. When we talk about yoga, we can not only refer to the physiological benefits (for example, increased flexibility, decreased muscle stiffness, etc.), but we have to mention the positive consequences it produces on the mind, emotional well-being and the brain.
Next, from Psychology and Mind we present the six psychological benefits of practicing yoga.
1. Reduce stress
The lifestyle of Western societies can lead many people to suffer from stress, causing psychological health problems such as depression, anxiety, etc. A study of Thirthalli and Naveen (2013) shows that yoga treatment reduces cortisol levels a hormone that is released in response to stress.
Cortisol is necessary for the body as it regulates and mobilizes energy in stressful situations, but if we have too much or it increases in situations where we do not need it, it produces many side effects. By practicing yoga we can lower the levels of this hormone, and therefore, reduce stress.
2. Improves sleep
Serotonin (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter derived from an amino acid called tryptophan. It sends messages within the brain and through the nervous system, and participates in many processes such as regulating mood or appetite. Furthermore, one of its main tasks is increase melatonin production a hormone that regulates sleep cycles.
To achieve a peaceful rest, serotonin intervenes in the control of stress and body temperature “The practice of yoga increases serotonin levels, which helps you sleep better,” explains Dr. Murali Doraiswam, author of a study at Duke University that included a review of more than 100 research papers on yoga. yoga.
3. Improves mood
As we mentioned in the previous point, serotonin (5-HT) also regulates mood. Low levels of 5-HT are associated with depressive and obsessive behaviors. Research by Cabral, Meyer and Ames (2011) found that regular yoga practice produces significant improvements in patients with depression and anxiety in a similar way to physical exercise, due to the increase in serotonin.
Another neurotransmitter that seems to influence this aspect is GABA. A recent study from Boston University and the University of Utah has shown that there is also an increase in this neurotransmitter in yoga practitioners
4. Extends life and prevents degenerative diseases
American researchers from Harvard University Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital have shown, after a study, that yoga and meditation increase the size of telomeres, structures that are located at the ends of chromosomes and that are directly related to aging, the development of certain pathologies and even premature death.
The study concludes that there seems to be a positive correlation between healthy, large telomeres and increased longevity, the prevention of degenerative diseases and people’s health. Doing yoga for only 15 minutes a day is enough to produce biochemical changes in the brain and neurons
5. Improves concentration
yoga practitioners they improve concentration, coordination, reaction time, memory, learning and show greater problem-solving skills according to a study by Neha Gothe, a professor at Wayne State University in Detroit. According to her research, published in The Journal of Physical Activity and Health20 minutes of yoga a day are more cognitively beneficial than a session of intense physical activity.
6. Improves the relationship and sexual relations
According to Pete McCall, exercise physiologist and personal trainer for the American Council on Exercise: “Yoga can result in better sex because it will help your flexibility and strengthen your pelvic muscles.” A study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine suggests that yoga can treat premature ejaculation and improve sexual satisfaction
Furthermore, as mentioned in other research from the University of British Columbia, the reduction of stress thanks to the practice of yoga increases libido and sexual vitality. Therefore, by improving your sex life in different ways, it is possible that your relationship will also benefit.
