“Yoga is like music. The rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul creates the symphony of life”
-B.K.S. Iyengar
The word “yoga” is commonly perceived as a handful of premeditated postures and meditation. However, needless to say, yoga is more than that. From breathing some fresh air to including it as an essential part of our exercise resume, it is safe to say, yoga is one of the most wholesome experiences one can have in their life.
Being the birthplace of yoga, India holds a deep connection with it. People from all over the world and from all walks of their lives have been visiting our country for a long time. So, on this occasion of 9th International Yoga Day, let us put some light on how yoga can improve every aspect of life.
- Yoga improves our mental health
Depression has become a common problem in the modern world, especially after the pandemic. It knows no boundary of age. Yoga, on the other hand, plays a vital role in lowering stress hormones in the body. Simultaneously, it releases feel-good chemicals in our brain such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and endorphins. These chemicals are essential in decreasing anxiety and improving mental health.
- Yoga increases our flexibility
As we practice yoga daily, we stretch our muscles which automatically reduce the stiffness and tiredness in the body. Thus, it makes body movements easier. The effects will be noticed quite soon after we start practising.
- Yoga builds strength
Apart from flexibility, yoga is highly beneficial for strengthening our bodies. Yoga builds a strong core which is very essential as we all know how a weak core is prone to injuries and fatigue. Yoga helps in building and toning muscles throughout the body.
- Yoga boosts immunity
Chronic stress and an unhealthy lifestyle go hand in hand and our immune system gets negatively affected by this. No wonder one is more prone to get ill when immunity is compromised. Practising yoga for a long time lowers inflammation in the body and improves our immunity system.
- Yoga improves self-esteem
Being consistent with yoga vastly refines both our mental and physical health. Practising asanas from a young age is very fruitful for its contribution to lowering stress and inducing self-esteem through various physical achievements. The mood and energy level in the body also gets elevated.
- Yoga promotes body awareness and better posture
The main focus of yoga postures is on the flexibility and mobility of the body which automatically contributes to better alignment of our body. Yoga relaxes body muscles and enhances spinal mobility. Therefore, the body postures get improved and we also become more aware of our bodies.
On a concluding note, the main purpose of yoga is to build harmony and create balance in every aspect of human life. As described, if we can embrace yoga and make it a part of our daily life, there will be an evident shift in our physical, mental, psychological, and spiritual side. And the best part is – it is never too late to start yoga.
By Arnab Biswas,
HOD (PHYSICAL EDUCATION)