Each year, we set resolutions on what we’d like to achieve over the coming months. The ultimate goal? To become better versions of ourselves.
We all have our own targets on how to enhance our Wellness, but can we perhaps suggest partaking in some yoga? Although you may think getting fit is all about high energy workouts, the benefits of this calming exercise are endless, and just fifteen minutes a day can elevate the process to an enhanced you.
What are the benefits of yoga?
It Refreshes You
Whilst an early morning HIIT workout releases all of the endorphins, it can also wipe you out – especially during the cold winter mornings. With yoga, it’s the opposite effect. The gentle-yet-effective exercise refreshes you, and makes you feel like you can combat the world. And we all want a bit of that feeling, right?
It Aids your Mental Health
All exercise is beneficial in enhancing your mental health, but yoga takes your self-serenity to the next level. Yoga calms the mind and helps to grow your meditative skillset, therefore reducing stress – necessary for most during these trying times.
Yoga Reduces Insomnia
If you’re having trouble sleeping, practicing yoga can help with that too, especially when done daily.
Particular positions such as the forward fold (uttanasana), or by laying down with your feet up the wall are prime for targeting insomnia. It may take a few tries to get right, but for a better nights sleep? It’s worth it.
Better Flexibility and Mobility
One of the most daunting things about starting yoga? Attempting the positions itself. A downward dog may feel overwhelming to a complete beginner, but, like most things, practise makes perfect.
Over time, both your flexibility and mobility will improve, and, the more yoga you do, the more you can challenge yourself to try. You’ll be the envy of your friends in no time.
It Builds Up Your Strength
Yes, you can put the dreaded barbells down, as yoga is good enough to build on your strength. All good things take time, but by regularly taking the time out for a session, you’ll stretch and tone your body muscles – without feeling like everything aches, too.
Weight Loss
Not many of us associate yoga with weight loss, but it’s actually a great form of exercise if you’re looking to drop a few pounds. Just a quarter of an hour every day is enough, perfect for those on a busy schedule (and demanding kids)…
It Corrects Your Posture
Something we could all do with is better posture. The remedy? Yoga, of course. Once you’ve got in the swing of it, you’re guaranteed to both walk taller and sit up straighter when at your desk (WFH slouchers, we’re onto you). If you’re suffering from back pain, regular activity will combat that.
Yoga is a Whole Workout In One
The fitness benefits of yoga speak for themselves. A session combines cardio, function and strength training all in one, ideal for those struggling with space or missing the gym. Plus, it’s perfect for working out quietly in the comfort of your own home, especially when compared to HIIT. Sadly, your neighbours don’t particularly want to hear you jumping around doing burpees.
Improve concentration
If you’ve made it to the end of this piece, we admire your dedication, but you can further improve your concentration by, you guessed it…
The poses and meditation mean you need to focus on getting your breathing right, which increases your mental stability and and ability to retain information.
Want some clothes for your new workout? These are our favourites from the Electric Yoga Sale.
Black Star Bright Leggings – £28
Black Maddox Speckle Bra – £20
White Rainbow Stripe Leggings – £28
Wine Crocodile Gloss Bra – £20
Gunmetal Kendall Panther Sweater – £26
Silver Limitless Biker Shorts – £26
Words: Maria Loizou
