Health benefits of yoga

Yoga is a mind and body practice with historical origins in ancient Indian philosophy. Various styles of yoga combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation.

In 5,000 years of yoga history, the term “yoga” has gone through a renaissance in current culture, exchanging the loincloth for a leotard and leggings.

Yoga has become popular as a form of physical exercise based upon asanas (physical poses) to promote improved control of mind and body and to enhance well-being.

However, scientific trials of varying quality have been published on the health benefits and medical uses of yoga. Studies suggest that yoga is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity and enhance strength, flexibility and balance.

Yoga practice has also shown benefit in specific medical conditions, and we will look at this evidence and current scientific research below.

Scientists and medical doctors pursuing yoga-related research focus on its potential benefits as a technique for relieving stress and coping with chronic conditions or disabilities, as well as investigating its potential to help prevent, heal, or alleviate specific conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, carpal tunnel syndrome, asthma, diabetes, and symptoms of menopause.

Here are some fast facts points about yoga.

The word “yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj meaning “to yoke or join together.” Some people take this to mean a union of mind and body.

A 2008 market study in Yoga Journal reports that some 16 million people in the US practice yoga and spend $5.7 billion a year on equipment.

 Hatha yoga is the type of yoga most frequently practiced in Western culture. Ha means “sun” and tha means “moon.”

There are many styles of yoga. A person’s fitness level and desired practice outcome determines the type of yoga class to which they are best suited.

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were more than 7,369 yoga-related injuries treated in doctors’ offices, clinics, and emergency rooms in 2010.

 Common yoga injuries include repetitive strain to and overstretching of the neck, shoulders, spine, legs, and knees.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) believes the rewards of basic yoga outweigh the potential physical risks.

 Yoga is defined as having eight branches or limbs: Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyhara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi.

Practicing yoga has many potential health benefits including relieving low back pain, assisting with stress management and increasing balance and flexibility.

There is some evidence to suggest that pregnant women taking yoga classes are less likely to experience problems in later pregnancy and labour.