Health & Wellness

Unleashing the Power Within with 6 Holistic Benefits of Yoga on International Yoga Day

by/June 21, 2023
International Yoga Day

From Flexibility to Focus: Yoga’s Comprehensive Rewards Uncovered

As you rise with the sun this June 21st, consider stepping onto the mat to join millions around the world in observing International Yoga Day.

Since its inception by the United Nations in 2014, this global day of wellness promotes unity of mind, body, and spirit through the time-honored practice of yoga. This ancient discipline, rooted in Indian philosophy, combines postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to provide a holistic approach to wellbeing. As we navigate our daily challenges, yoga can offer a welcome respite, aiding us in cultivating a sense of balance, resilience, and tranquility.

6 Holistic Benefits of Practicing Yoga

  • Stress Relief:

    Regular yoga practice is known to decrease stress and promote relaxation by modulating our body’s stress response system, reducing levels of the hormone cortisol.

    According to a study published in the International Journal of Yoga, yoga practice significantly decreased levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, by up to 14%.

  • Improved Physical Fitness:

    Yoga can improve balance, flexibility, strength, and endurance. This is not only beneficial for overall health but also helps in injury prevention and recovery.

    A research study in the Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research found that eight weeks of consistent yoga practice could improve balance by 13%, muscular strength by 31%, and endurance by 57%.

  • Mindfulness and Mental Clarity:

    By focusing on breathing and movement, yoga helps cultivate mindfulness, leading to improved concentration and mental clarity.

    A study from the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that 20 minutes of yoga can improve brain function and actually boost scores on tests of cognitive function compared to aerobic exercises.

  • Pain Management:

    Studies have shown yoga can reduce chronic pain symptoms, including those related to conditions such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome.

    A 2020 study in the Journal of General Internal Medicine showed that yoga was beneficial in managing and easing chronic lower back pain and reducing the need for pain medication.

  • Improved Sleep Quality:

    Regular yoga practice can help improve sleep patterns by reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and regulating sleep-wake cycles.

    A national survey from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) reported that over 55% of yoga practitioners said they experienced better sleep, and 85% reported stress reduction.

  • Heart Health:

    Incorporating yoga into a heart-healthy lifestyle can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other cardiovascular disease risk factors.

    A 2022 study published in the journal The American Journal of Cardiology found that yoga can reduce the risk of heart disease in people with high blood pressure and a 2021 study published in the journal Preventive Medicine found that yoga can reduce the risk of stroke in people with high cholesterol.

As you contemplate the ways yoga could enrich your life, remember: the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step—or in this case, perhaps a single pose. Whether you’re a novice seeking gentle guidance or an experienced yogi desiring to deepen your practice, our Feds in Motion Wellness Wednesdays offer something for everyone. We invite you to roll out your mat and try one of our previously featured yoga sessions, designed to guide you on your wellness journey. Embrace the opportunity to cultivate balance and resilience in your life. The path to wellness is within your reach—why not take the first step today?

International Yoga Day

Emily Straight leads us through a gentle yoga practice. Whether seated on the floor, in a chair, or standing, these moves can be modified to fit everybody. There’s no need to change clothes or bring any special equipment.

Watch Beginner’s Yoga
International Yoga Day

Heather will lead you through straightforward yoga techniques that you can easily integrate into your routine.  You can apply these methods at your office desk or home to rejuvenate your body and calm your mind.

Watch Beginner’s Yoga

More from FEEA

The information provided in this piece is for your convenience and informational purposes only and not to be construed as professional advice. FEEA and its coauthors and sponsors are not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act with regard to the content in this piece.

Would you like to reprint this piece in your agency human resource, federal employee association, or union local newsletter? You can do so at no cost by contacting [email protected] with your request.

Tags:#mindfulbreathing, #mindfulness, #stress, #wellness, #yoga