Mindfulness is a powerful thing. I first picked up yoga because I wanted to become more flexible, that I have along with reaping other benefits as well. Due to the deep breathing and focus on balancing myself on one foot with my other appendages are going in all directions, I am able to effectively concentrate and the stress reducing effects are monumental.
Yoga teaches you to be mindful, to calm yourself in discomfort. Whether that be a painful stretch, a physical taxing pose, or even a stressful moment in the work week, yoga teaches you how to sooth yourself to handle the situation more effectively.
I just read an article in Women’s Health that quotes research on the weight benefits of yoga. Because yogis’ are mindful of their feelings and how to handle them, stress eating is less of a concern or even reaching for the wrong food is lessened.
All and all I really enjoy the heightened awareness of my body. I pleased that I can hold some stretches for 60 seconds from when I started at just 5. It’s easy to put your mind in that place; it is just keeping it there during the uncomfortable periods that take practice, but obviously it worth the effort.
