10 Health Benefits Of Yoga (Backed By Science)

Reduces Depression and Stress

Stress is normal as it’s the body’s natural reaction to unfamiliar situations or something that puts a lot of pressure on you. Examples are having to complete many tasks in a limited time, financial strains, assault, and loss of a loved one. However, it becomes a problem when the symptoms persist for an extended period—if it keeps happening and it starts to affect the quality of your life. It’s called chronic stress. The symptoms could manifest emotionally, physically, and mentally. Some of them are high blood pressure, pains, sleeping difficulties, and stomach problems. Others turn to unhealthy lifestyle choices, like drugs, overeating, smoking, gambling, and drinking too much alcohol. It could also cause anxiety and depression if not managed properly.

Staying connected with loved ones, eating nutritious foods, and exercising can help manage chronic stress. Yoga can also help manage anxiety and depression by using meditation and breathing techniques to calm the mind. In addition, studies suggest that yoga boosts the production of serotonin. This chemical sends messages between the brain and different parts of the body. Thus, affecting the overall function of the system, including mood. An increased level of serotonin can stabilize the mood.