7 reasons why yoga is good for you

Yoga is really more than sitting cross-legged, chanting mantras and talking about energy. The asanas in a yoga class might even be more challenging than the average workout you're used to. Here are 7 reasons why yoga is so good for you:
1. Yoga relieves pain and injuries
Most people come to yoga for the first time because of an injury or pain, usually in the back, knees or joints. Yoga uses controlled movements and breathing to open the body. Attention and proper alignment of the body are paramount in a yoga classes. This attentive way of moving reduces the risk of injury. In addition, yoga demands that you pay attention to your own limits, and above all, do not go beyond them. There is always an adjustment or variation to a pose that you can do without sacrificing challenge and progress. If you attend a class regularly, pain and injuries will already decrease within the first month through yoga.

2. Yoga keeps your body fit, flexible and strong
Many people say they're not loan enough for yoga. But actually, that's like saying "running is not for me, because I'm not in shape", because everything needs time to develop. Yoga poses are designed to make your body stronger and more flexible - without compromising your body and its limits. Important is the right combination of strength, mobility and balance that you build up in class. And develops muscles that you didn't even know you had - or that had fallen asleep. Just think of all the muscles in your back that break down during all the hours you spend at the desk. Your muscles get a real wake-up call during your yoga classes. With patience and regular practice, you will become stronger and more flexible than you ever dreamed!

3. Yoga is the challenge you're missing, and it's fun, too
Yoga is really more than sitting cross-legged, chanting mantras and talking about energy. A yoga class can even be more of a challenge than the average workout you're used to. You'll bump into your own limits, which you'll have to (learn to) accept, but it's worth it. Yoga teaches you how to challenge yourself without being competitive. Because often competition leads to injury, especially in other sports. Besides: learning new poses and noticing progress is a very addictive feeling! Take it from us.

4. Yoga helps improve your nutrition, sleep and overall health
Once you start feeling the physical benefits of your yoga classes, you'll notice that your diet and sleep patterns naturally adjust too. The urge to wolf down a bowl of ice cream disappears because you like to keep your body healthy. During yoga class, you will notice that you are so focused on posture that there is no room for thoughts about work, bills or other things. You are fully in the here and now, and that brings peace to your mind. After the class, you feel relaxed and grounded. The combination of a well-feeling body and mind is the recipe for a healthier way of life.

5. Yoga gives you the chance to do the things you love longer and more efficiently
The whole purpose of yoga is "living life to the fullest", or in other words: getting the most out of your life. Whether you love to run, fish, play golf, basketball, travel or play with your children without injury - yoga helps you to do the things you love better and longer. Even though the yoga poses are fun and a good way to get you started, they are not the end goal. The point is that when you feel good, you can enjoy life.

6. Yoga improves your performance and reduces stress
Whether it's at work, at the gym, at family gatherings or at the supermarket, challenges are everywhere. Yoga trains you to stay calm and grounded, especially in moments of stress. Because why would anyone force themselves into a challenging yoga pose and then be asked to stand there and keep breathing? Because in real life, you encounter many more challenges than on your yoga mat. By practising to stay calm in uncomfortable situations, both physically and mentally, you train yourself to remain the best version of yourself. Even in difficult moments.

7. Yoga is the fountain of youth
Somewhere between all the physical, mental and health benefits that yoga brings, you will also feel younger and better than you could ever imagine. This will only happen if you keep practising yoga with regularity and dedication. Give yourself time, because everyone needs time to develop. Yoga communities consist of young and old, who want to develop themselves and get more out of life. If you surround yourself with people who are open to opening up your body and mind, you will be open to new things yourself.

Check this yoga blog