Plain and simple, yoga is filled with so much goodness when it comes to longevity. The practice is not only healthy for the mind and body, but it is also truly a fun way to exercise. Yoga moves are convenient to perform in the comfort of your own home, or you can easily grab a mat and seek out outdoor classes in towns and cities across the country to join in the fun. So we’re here to namaste and share exactly what the science says about yoga habits that slow aging. Grab your mat and listen!
The fact that some claim that the ancient practice originated 5,000 years ago, or even more, and is still going strong says it all (via living science). Yoga it’s so popular, in fact, that the industry posted profits of $11.56 billion in 2020 alone, statist reports. There is also an International Yoga Day which is celebrated on June 21 every year!
If you haven’t tried yoga yet, consider giving this nourishing form of exercise a try and embrace the multitude of scientific health benefits we’re here with today. Whether your goal is keeping fit, treat or prevent chronic disease, or get back on track after surgery, any amount of yoga can improve how your whole body feels and prolong your life. So read on for the yoga habits that slow aging, according to science.
Originating from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” yoga means to unite or “join,” as the movements create a balance between mind and body, according to yogi times. “Lifestyle choices, such as practicing yoga and meditation, can affect well-being, immune function and longevity.” says Sat Bir S. KhalsaDirector of the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health Research.
Yoga is also an amazing way to boost your immune system and remove toxins from your body. The relaxing techniques of yoga are very beneficial for circulation, which is great at preventing strokes, heart attacks, and blood clots (via whole u).
And what is more, research published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity indicates that performing 12 weeks of yoga actually slows down the aging of cells. The study’s yoga regimen included an hour and a half of breathing, meditation and physical postures for five days a week over a 12-week period.
Related: Trainer Reveals The Best Fitness Habits That Slow Aging
Yoga is described by the International Yoga Magazine as a form of medicine for the mind and body that brings together the mental, physical, and spiritual elements to improve overall health, especially as it relates to stress. Why is treating stress so impactful? Well, it can cause cancer, heart disease, stroke, and many other health conditions that can lead to mortality. Yoga manages stress in an integral way, generating a series of benefits that reduce it.
If you haven’t noticed by now, yoga is pretty magical in helping your body look and feel younger. Getting into a routine can increase your energy levels and decrease negativity. Science reveals that yoga is also amazing for maintaining a healthy diet and losing weight (via Johns Hopkins Medicine). If you choose to attend a class with other people, you will benefit from the social aspect, which makes an incredible contribution to slowing down the aging process.
Related: The best yoga moves for an incredibly fit lifestyle, says an expert
Do you have problems sleeping? If so, a nightly yoga routine before bed can relax your mind and lead to a more restful night.
Lower back pain is another chronic condition that benefits greatly from yoga stretches. In fact, the American College of Physicians (via Johns Hopkins Medicine) recommends yoga as a first-line way to treat chronic low back pain. Try the cat and cow pose to help ease the discomfort. And if you suffer from arthritis, guess what? Yoga can be your best friend.
An extraordinary way to get fit, stay fit, avoid illness, and as a result, live a longer life is with a consistent yoga routine. Holding poses will help strengthen muscles, increase bone density, and improve flexibility and balance (via Johns Hopkins Medicine). Weight-bearing positions are helpful in preventing osteoporosis, and your joints will be working through a full range of motion, thus protecting your bones and cartilage, according to whole u.
alexa mellardo
Alexa is the Mind + Body Associate Editor for Eat This, Not That!, overseeing the M+B channel, and providing readers with engaging topics on fitness, wellness, and personal care. Read more about Alexa
