Yoga isn’t just about flexible limbs—this ancient practice can boost memory, heart health, and bone strength. Brits spend an impressive £790 million annually on yoga classes and mats. While some unusual yoga trends like rage or dog yoga emerge, scientific studies are increasingly validating yoga’s benefits.
Researchers at UCLA found a three-month yoga and meditation program more effective than memory exercises for reducing age-related brain decline. Another study found it improved sleep in breast cancer survivors.
Lucy Edge, a 53-year-old former advertising executive, chose yoga over antidepressants during a deep depression. After a six-month career break in India to study yoga, she returned happier and more content. Lucy has authored three books on yoga and established Yoga Meds, listing over 300 clinical trials on yoga’s benefits for various conditions.
Studies suggest that yoga may help enhance health in numerous ways. For instance, UCLA research involving brain scans and memory tests on adults over 55 showed that a 12-week course of yoga and meditation improved spatial and visual memory, decreased depression and anxiety, and increased stress resilience.
If you want to get started, you don’t need endless hours of headstands. The study participants practiced one hour of Kundalini yoga weekly and 20 minutes of Kirtan Kriya meditation daily, featuring chanting and visualization.
Yoga can also aid heart health. A 2014 review in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology found yoga might reduce heart disease risk as effectively as conventional exercise like brisk walking. Stress reduction through yoga benefits emotional health, anxiety, stress, and depression—conditions common after cardiac events or surgery. Practicing yoga can also improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight management.
To reduce stress, try gentle yoga poses or Restorative yoga with bolsters and cushions, which offers deep nervous system relaxation.
Sarah Shone, a musculoskeletal physiotherapist and yoga teacher, integrated yoga into rehabilitation for back pain, with 87% of participants reporting pain reduction. The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends yoga for lower back pain. Shone now aims to train more physiotherapists to use yoga clinically. Yoga also strengthens pelvic floor muscles and increases bone density, with adaptable poses to suit all fitness levels.
Starting with a health condition like back pain? Consult your doctor to see if you qualify for a subsidized yoga course.
Choosing the right yoga mat is essential. Whether it’s for home use or portability, consider durability, weight, and length that suits your height. A thicker mat protects your joints and enhances comfort.
For instance, the Elephant Cork Yoga Mat from Valka Yoga is a versatile, eco-friendly option made from organic cork and natural rubber, providing joint and wrist cushioning. The mat becomes grippier with sweat and is naturally antimicrobial and odor-resistant.
Yoga accessories like blocks can help in executing more challenging poses. Cork blocks offer grip and stability, aiding those less flexible.
Different yoga styles cater to varying needs. Yin or Restorative yoga involves supportive poses under candlelight. Vinyasa Flow is dynamic and breath-linked, suitable for beginners with adaptive moves. Iyengar yoga focuses on alignment and uses props. Anusara yoga combines flowing movements with upbeat music. Yoga Therapy is tailored to healing injuries or illness.
No matter your flexibility level, there’s a style of yoga to help you.
