We’re all stuck in the house a bit more these days and it’s important to keep mobile to ensure we don’t develop any painful ailments or stress injuries.
Yoga can greatly help us find our mobility in a gentle and relaxing way whilst staying supported, so it’s great no matter your condition or age. There are many free yoga resources out there and even those you can do from your wheelchair, armchair or stool! Here are a few reasons why you should think about having a go:
It can Decrease Stress
Yoga can promote relaxation, and for the short period you take out of your normal life, you can zone out and forget about any worries – even just for 10 minutes. Studies have shown that it can decrease cortisol which is the main stress hormone. When used alongside other stress alleviating methods, yoga can be extremely beneficial to those who would perceive themselves as emotionally stressed.
May Reduce Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is something that many people across the country suffer from and it can lead to more severe conditions that we want to prevent. Yoga has been shown to do this – even from your chair. During a study in 2015, a group of participants was split into two, one group practiced yoga and the other didn’t. At the end of the study, the group who performed yoga had much lower levels of inflammatory markers than the group who didn’t.
Can Improve Heart Health
Your heart health is probably one of the most important components to all-round good health. It pumps blood around your body and supplies organs and tissue with valuable nutrients. High blood pressure is one of the main causes of heart problems and yoga has been proven to reduce blood pressure and pulse rate in those over 40. Incorporating yoga into your lifestyle is also thought to slow the progression of heart disease.
Could Reduce Chronic Pain
From injuries to arthritis, chronic pain is a persistent problem in many people. Research is constantly increasing to show a positive correlation between yoga and reduced pain. Consistent low impact stretching, and movement can be good for improving strength and lowering the amount of pain you are in although more research is needed*.
Improves Flexibility & Balance
This is the main reason why many people take up yoga – to feel good. There are specific poses to help different points of your body. A study of elderly people was carried out and they found that the group practising yoga had become more flexible than those doing strength exercises.
The power yoga has on our body and mind is great and whether you must stay seated or can get on the floor, you should have a go! There are many videos out there showing yoga positions from beginner to expert and standing or sitting. Here’s a beginner’s sitting session to get you started:
*If you have chronic pain, please consult your doctor before undertaking any exercise to prevent further injury.
