Modern life has become more chaotic and busy. This has led to the rise of yoga. Yoga provides many other mental and physical benefits. Some of these extend to the kitchen table.

There are many types of yoga, such as Hatha. It is a type of yoga that focuses on breathing exercises and a series of asanas. The goal is to get as much done as possible while not feeling overwhelmed. This practice is focused on cultivating a calm and accepting mind and body. This activity helps develop awareness of the body’s abilities. It’s not about physical appearance. Instead of mirrors, yoga studios use mirrors to help people focus their attention on the body instead of the people around them. This allows them to focus on their breathing and awareness instead of the image of their bodies.

According to the Harvard Medical School, focusing on the present moment can improve a person’s mental health. It can also help them manage stress and improve their physical well-being. Mindful eating is a nonjudgmental approach to addressing the physical and emotional aspects of eating.

They developed a questionnaire to measure mindful eating using these behaviors:

• Eating even when full (disinhibition)
• Being aware of how food looks, tastes and smells
• Eating in response to environmental cues, such as the sight or smell of food
• Eating when sad or stressed (emotional eating)
• Eating when distracted by other things

People who practiced yoga were more likely to eat well according to their eating scores. The study also found that the amount of practice they performed was linked to the better eating habits. People who practice yoga and eat mindfully are more aware of their bodies’ natural cues when it comes to hunger. Those who practiced yoga for at least four years had a lower BMI than those who did not.

Although yoga is known to improve a person’s mental health, it can also improve their physical fitness. For the study, researchers focused on the effects of yoga on a group of individuals who were not yet active. After eight weeks, they experienced greater flexibility and muscle strength. Several studies have shown that yoga can lower blood pressure and improve heart health. It’s believed that this practice helps the body maintain its balance and senses the pressure in the body. A study found that regular yoga practice can improve the lipid profile of patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease. It can also lower blood sugar levels and improve overall health.

Before you start a new exercise program, be sure to check with your doctor.

Researchers are also studying if yoga can help people with depression and arthritis, and improve survival from cancer.

Namaste!

Article by: Haniah Mirza