Discover the mental and physical benefits of yoga
Yoga can improve cardiovascular health, possibly lowering blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood glucose levels, as well as heart rate. Researchers measured two indicators of heart disease in middle-aged people — blood numbers and waist circumference. They noted improved results among those who practiced yoga for three months. They also followed patients with heart failure and noticed improved exercise capacity among those who participated in an eight-week yoga program.
Yoga can lower blood sugar levels for those with Type 2 diabetes. Yoga mindfulness practices seemed to lower sugar levels as effectively as medication.
Yoga improves physical fitness and strength. A recent study found that those who practiced yoga twice a week for 90 minutes per session had greater muscle strength, endurance, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness.
Yoga improves balance and flexibility and enhances coordination. This is important as people age, because it provides increased mobility and prevents falls. Falls are the leading cause of injury in adults over 65.
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