What a year it has been so far on planet Earth. Awful terrorist atrocities, civil wars still raging and political instability almost everywhere you look. It’s hard to avoid the negativity, even from our beautiful surroundings here in Australia.
We’re not saying we have the answers to the world’s problems, but it seemed appropriate on International Day of Yoga to talk about all the wonderful benefits that can come from practising this ancient activity.
Some people slip into their happy place by cranking some Taylor Swift or Kendrick Lamar up to full blast and dancing it out – for others, calmness and serenity is what they need to bring the positive energy out.
Quite frankly there are probably too many to mention here, but below are a few of our favourite benefits to tickle your interest if you’re not already a fully paid-up yogi.
Breathing – you may think you already breathe all day, every day but do you really breathe? The essence of yoga is learning how to make the most of your breath and letting it guide the movements that you make.
Stretching – you might be stuck sitting at a desk all day staring at a screen, or you might be a fitness fanatic who runs 10kms per day, but everyone needs to get better at stretching out. Every muscle in your body will love you for taking the time to stretch in the right way and you’ll notice the difference straight away.
Sleeping – aside from the blissful meditation at the end of a yoga class, the physical activity, breathing exercises and improved mental wellbeing will help you sleep better and avoid tossing and turning all night long.
Nothingness – the art of clearing your mind can only come with practice, and yoga is the perfect tool to set you on your way. So next time you want to escape from whatever is getting you down, you can stop your mind running at 100km/h.
Namaskar – this beautiful greeting is often done at the end of a yoga practice by bringing your palms together and bowing in a sign of respect to the others in your class. There is something pretty liberating about ending an exercise session this way and feeling the positive energy nodding namaste to each other.
Thinking about it, we might just have stumbled upon the solution for world peace. Would there really be so much anger and animosity if everyone took the time to look after their well-being, see the best in people and preach namaste rather than hatred?
Let us know if you’ve been inspired to give yoga a go or if you’re already in love with your regular practice.
Check out more about International Day of Yoga here.