A yoga body isn’t just about flexibility; the ancient practice can also boost memory, heart, and bone health, according to Anna Magee. Yoga has become quite popular in the UK, with people spending £790 million annually on yoga classes and equipment. While some modern yoga trends may seem unusual—like rage yoga, nude yoga, or doing poses on paddle-boards and horseback—the benefits of traditional yoga are increasingly backed by scientific research.
For example, a study by UCLA revealed that a three-month course of yoga and meditation was more effective than memory exercises in reducing age-related brain impairments. Another study showed yoga could improve sleep for breast cancer survivors.
Lucy Edge, a former advertising executive, turned to yoga to combat her depression. She took a six-month break in India to learn yoga, which brought her a sense of happiness and contentment she had never experienced before. Edge has written books about yoga and created Yoga Meds, a section on her website listing clinical trials that demonstrate yoga’s benefits for various conditions like arthritis, insomnia, and obesity. She emphasizes the importance of evidence-backed benefits of yoga.
Starting with yoga doesn’t require hours of practice. For memory improvement, the UCLA study participants did one hour of Kundalini yoga per week, combined with 20 minutes of daily Kirtan Kriya meditation, which includes chanting, hand movements, and visualizing light.
Yoga also shows promise for heart health. A review published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology indicated that yoga could lower heart disease risk as effectively as traditional exercises like brisk walking. Stress reduction is a key element, as stress hormones can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Dr. Mike Knapton from the British Heart Foundation notes that yoga helps with anxiety, stress, and depression—common conditions among those with heart issues. Additionally, it can improve factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight.
To reduce stress, starting with gentle yoga poses or Restorative yoga can be beneficial. Restorative yoga uses bolsters and cushions to support postures held for extended periods, giving the nervous system a break. Musculoskeletal physiotherapist and yoga teacher Sarah Shone successfully integrated yoga into back pain rehabilitation, with 87% of participants reporting pain reduction. National guidelines suggest yoga as a helpful exercise for lower back pain, and Shone is working to train more physiotherapists in yoga.
Yoga addresses various health issues, including incontinence and bone density. It strengthens the pelvic floor muscles and is weight-bearing, promoting bone health.
Starting with yoga requires choosing the right style and props. For beginners or those with health conditions, gentler styles like Hatha or Iyengar are recommended. Consulting a doctor for subsidized yoga options under the exercise referral scheme can also be beneficial.
Choosing a good yoga mat is crucial. Consider where it will be kept, how often it needs to be transported, and specific needs like thickness for joint protection. A thicker mat provides better cushioning for knees and wrists.
For example, the Elephant Cork Yoga mat from Valka Yoga is eco-friendly, made from organic cork and natural rubber, and supports joint comfort. Cork mats are antimicrobial and odour-resistant, making them ideal for sweaty sessions. They also come with a carry strap and guaranties for customer satisfaction.
Adding a yoga block, like the matching Elephant design from Valka, can help with more challenging poses by providing extra stability and grip, making it a smart addition for any yoga routine.
Various yoga styles cater to different preferences and levels of flexibility. Yin or Restorative yoga uses props for support in a calming environment. Vinyasa Flow links breath to movement in a dynamic sequence. Iyengar focuses on alignment and uses props, while Anusara combines alignment with flowing movements and music. Yoga Therapy is tailored to address specific injuries or illnesses.
Lucy Edge’s latest book and more resources on yoga, like creating a home retreat or success tips from neuroscientists, are easily accessible for those looking to enhance their wellness journey.
