The positive benefits yoga has on mental health are numerous. Yoga has been shown to help with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and trauma. Yoga can also be effective in reducing stress.

Meditation and Mindfulness

Yoga is an ancient meditation and mindfulness practice. Yoga teaches controlled breathing with poses designed to promote flexibility and calmness. Mindfulness emphasizes a sense of being, oneness and self. The idea of mindfulness is to be aware of your surroundings and living in the present moment. Mindfulness emphasizes a sense of being, oneness and self. Yoga, meditation and mindfulness are a popular practice in psychotherapy, treatment and rehab centers for those reasons. Yoga can be a major component in restoring one’s emotional balance and feelings of personal empowerment. This is due to the meditation, relaxation, awareness of being in the present moment and the stress/anxiety reduction.

Physical and Mental Benefits

Physical benefits may include increased strength, flexibility, respiratory and neuromuscular function. It can also reduce the stress hormone cortisol and help manage pain. Mental health benefits may include reduction in depression, anxiety, stress and effects of trauma. It can also increase concentration/focus as well as overall self-image/well-being.

How you see yourself and how you think others see you have a direct relation to your positive mental health. Most people tend to internalize the external and may unfortunately become a victim of overwhelming negative internal dialogue. Consequently, this can lead to depression. The depression may also be accompanied by physical lethargy and feelings of hopelessness. Fear is a mental/emotional state that can lead to paralysis of will and action.

Practicing hot yoga can be great for removing toxins from the body. This is because Hot yoga is done in a room with hot and humid conditions, causing profuse sweating. When one considers the expense of mental health treatment, therapy and cost of drugs, why not include yoga as a complement to traditional medical protocols? Big pharma may not approve, but who cares?