Alyssa Mandel on The Mental Health Benefits of Yoga

Over the last 30 years yoga has become increasingly popular. Studies since 1970 have shown that yoga benefits both the mind and body. Although some of the ways yoga does this are apparent through relaxation and breathing techniques, some of the mental health benefits are not as obvious.

Regularly practicing yoga, is linked to decreased depression and stress. It also improves mood, sleep quality, and confidence. These improvements can have effects on all aspects of your life and mental health. In order to obtain the maximum benefits from yoga, it should ideally be practiced between three and seven days a week for at least fifteen minutes at a time.

When practicing yoga, the body and mind are both experiencing a release of tension and negativity. In particular, yoga helps the body move from fight or flight into a more restful phase. This allows the mind to become more relaxed and less nervous. In addition, yoga requires you to be mindful and focus on the present; allowing you to momentarily place their concerns aside and remain in the moment.

Many of the poses used in yoga also allow the body to work through tension and pain, which often prompts an emotional release and improved relaxation. A study by the University of Utah showed that those who practice yoga regularly are less significantly affected by pain and have a smaller stress response to that pain. The regular practice of yoga retrains the brain to handle both of these negative emotions more adeptly and efficiently.

The effects of yoga are not simply subconscious, however. Frequent yoga practice often improves self image, leading to increased confidence and mood. In addition to improved relationships, yoga can help with working through past traumas and negative emotions. As much of yoga is based on mindfulness and meditation, following these practices frequently leads to more acceptance and contentment.

Yoga is not just beneficial to the body - for many people, it is also an important component of mental health. Frequent, regular yoga practice can grant positive benefits to the mind, body, and relationships of anyone who chooses to participate.