Yoga is popular because of its calming effect. Currently, yoga therapy is practiced in recovery institutes because of its effect on stress relief and tension in the body. The effects of yoga therapymay be seen in diminishing back pain, reducing stress that can lead to eating disorders, limiting the possibility of type II diabetes, and it can aid in pregnancy and weight loss.
Back Pain
Today nearly eight percent of Americans suffer from back pain, and the outlook for curing the pain is grim. Yoga, however, can help heal back pain, reduce recovery time, prevent re-injury, and reduce the risk of becoming disabled from the pain. This occurs because yoga strengthens the muscles in the back and reduces any inflammation. Because yoga can correct your posture and keep the spine in line, back pain and re-injury are diminished.
Many times back pain is caused by a strain. Strains are caused by injury or stress to the muscles and can cause muscle spasms and even decrease the muscle strength and motion. A recent study found that among people who suffered from back strains, 96 percent reported that practicing yoga significantly reduced their pain and discomfort.
Eating disorders
Yoga can help relieve pain as well as reduce mental illnesses. Because eating disorders are psychological illnesses, yoga can have a significant effect while working toward a cure. Nearly 10 million women are affected by eating disorders in the United States. Yoga therapy helps bring endorphins to the brain and will help those suffering to think more clearly.
Yoga will also aid psychological issues in eating disorders by balancing emotions and diminishing depression. Yoga will help individuals gain confidence and build self-esteem. The therapy also helps rebuild bone density and muscle capacity, two items that are lost in the illness. While yoga will not necessarily offer a cure for eating disorders, it may aid in the process of combating the illness.
Type II Diabetes
Type II diabetes, also known as adult onset diabetes, is treatable and preventable through diet and exercise, yet it affects 18 million Americans. Yogais a technique that many have used to lower their blood sugar levels. Because diabetics suffer from high blood sugar, yoga helps lower those sugar levels. Another contributing factor to type II Diabetes is stress. Stress can force your body to accept an elevated intake of insulin, leading to blood sugar problems. Yoga, combined with meditation, can lower stress levels and decrease the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is naturally a stressful time in a woman’s life. Yogawill not only reduce stress levels, but it can make the pregnancy easier and more comfortable for the woman. Several techniques are available that a woman can practice through each specific trimester of her pregnancy that will aid in the birthing process and help restore her natural shape after childbirth.
Yoga, meditation, and controlled breathing exercises help the pregnancy process go more smoothly. Yoga will help blood circulation and relieve cramps and work to prevent varicose veins. It will also be more nourishing for the baby. After consistent yoga therapy the body will be more mentally and physically prepared for the child-birthing process.
Weight Loss
Yoga will help increase mental awareness and stability and physical strength and stamina. Yoga will boost metabolism, burn calories, and promote a healthy lifestyle. By increasing endorphins through yoga, one may increase one’s self esteem, flexibility and strength. With all of these significant factors, weight loss will be faster and easier to come by for those who practice yoga.
While yoga may not necessarily be a cure to illness and injury, it will definitely aid in the therapeutic process.
By Amber Callister