Meditation and Exercise through Yoga Classes in Wantagh

by | May 5, 2016 | Health And Fitness

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Yoga may not seem like difficult exercise on the surface and regular gym goers may not see the appeal at first. They might believe that it doesn’t build as much as muscle calisthenics or strength training or provide the adrenaline rush of martial arts or boxing. People who are used to a certain type of exercise may not understand why yoga classes in Wantagh are so good for your health and body.

Yoga is Meditation

Yoga is not just exercise but also a spiritual and mental discipline that goes beyond our usual exercise routines. This is why it has grown in popularity over the years, spreading worldwide from its origins in India.

One thing that sets it apart from other gym classes is its close association with meditation. Many of the regular attendees of yoga classes in Wantagh believe yoga has helped them become calmer and relaxed in their everyday lives.

The Science of Relieving Stress

A 2011 study reported in the International Journal of Yoga took 60 students and randomly assigned half of them to 35-minute yoga practice and the other half were offered no yoga. After 12 weeks, they were given a test for stress and anxiety. Blood samples were also taken to determine levels of cortisol, a hormone that rises with stress.

The non-yoga group had an increase in their both their perceived levels of stress and cortisol levels. The yoga group, however did not have any increase in either of the parameters.

Although the body often uses the stress response to help you resolve problems or recover from a crisis, too much stress can take its toll. When stress hormones are increased in the long-term, it puts a strain on your body. This can result in a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke and depression.

Include Yoga in Your Routine

If you are new to the gym and looking to improve your health, to take on a challenge, or get accustomed to working out regularly, yoga classes in Wantagh are a perfect entry point.

However, those who already very involved in working out or playing sports also say that yoga has helped them focus, making them better at their other athletic endeavors. Yoga’s positive effects make it an excellent addition to your regular routine.

So whether you’re a newcomer or a regular, try a session of yoga classes in Wantagh. You’ll find that you reap the benefits of yoga for decreased stress and better health.