The word yoga is from the Sanskrit word yuji, meaning yoke or union. Yoga is an ancient spiritual and health discipline of Indian origin that unites mind and body. Practicing yoga is believed to benefit mental and physical health to overcome all kinds of sufferings. Is there scientific proof?
Yoga incorporates breathing exercises and meditation to improve mental health with relaxation techniques to ease stress, depression and anxiety. In addition to improving mental health, practicing yoga may help inflammation and chronic pain.
Some recent studies confirm that yoga can decrease the secretion of cortisol, the primary stress hormone. A study of a controlled group who practiced yoga with physical postures, breathing and medication five days a week for 12 weeks was published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity. Researchers found that yoga significantly decreased levels of cortisol and inflammation. In another study published in Frontiers of Human Neuroscience, researchers discovered that a three-month yoga retreat reduced stress, depression, anxiety, and inflammation.1
Thirty-six million American participate in yoga for relaxation, exercise and relief of joint and muscle-related pain. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) corroborates the rewards of basic yoga, including improved mental health and physical balance, strength and flexibility, as outweighing any potential risks.
A 2015 Hatha yoga study with 173 participants and 12 weeks of practice led to physical improvements. The study concluded that the yoga program produced “beneficial changes in cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, physical endurance, and flexibility.”2
India, the land of yoga, strives for balance in all things, spiritual, mental and physical, or comprehensive health. Direct Orthopedic Care encourages guests to participate in wellness activities that benefit their overall health. Discuss beginning a new exercise, wellness regimen, including yoga, with the DOC orthopedic surgeon, PA or physical therapist.
Sources:
1Harvard Health Publishing – Yoga could slow the harmful effects of stress and inflammation
OrthoInfo – Yoga Injury Prevention
