Yoga is a discipline founded in India but has grown widely to reach many other cultures including Western Culture. It emphasizes physical, mental and emotional balance. There is a growing body of research showing the health benefits of yoga. One of the main benefits is that it can help the body cope with stress by reducing our stress responses. It can also be used to lose weight by both reducing stress chemicals in the body and by increasing your physical activity. Some evidence suggests that group yoga classes enhance social bonds, which are just as vital for physical health and longevity. Other health conditions that can be improved with yoga include: blood pressure, pulse rate, circulation, respiratory, management of chronic health conditions, insomnia, depression and fatigue. Yoga is a way of life. Everything we do can be done with presence, patience and living in the moment. It is an art.
My favorite yoga studio in Washington DC is Flow Yoga DC located on P St. I love the Jivamukti classes, the instructors and the space. Every time I need to get back into my yoga practice, I start at Flow. Other yoga studios located in Georgetown include Core Power Yoga and Yoga del Sol.
References
Vidyashankar, C. Studies Show Yoga Has Multiple Benefits. Reuters.
Yoga: Tap Into The Many Health Benefits. Mayo Clinic online.
Walker, Meredith. 77 Surprising Health Benefits of Yoga. NursingDegree.net.
