As the world celebrates the 3rd anniversary of International Yoga Day, Times NIE tells you how this ancient fitness science and philosophy helps in achieving optimal physical and mental well-being
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Yoga is not about exercise, but to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world and the nature.” Unlike equipment-based gym training, yoga is beneficial and safe for everyone including kids and teens. Notably, the brain continues to develop throughout early to late teenage years and yoga helps in strengthening the prefrontal cortex (the area behind the forehead) – called CEO of the brain – for its ability to organise and regulate mood and planning behaviour. Understandably, yoga can help youngsters in building a successful and meaningful life. Here are seven ways in which it benefits us all.
Boosts optimism: This is what the world needs, especially children who thrive on hope and optimism for their future. Regular practice of yoga helps increase positivity, thanks to the asanas that improve blood circulation in the brain.
Helps achieve focus: Studies have found that students prone to anxiety and even other issues such as fear of exams and low self-esteem feel confident and are able to focus better on studies and sports by including yoga exercises in their weekly routine. Even once a week of yoga helps.
Leads to better posture: If you walk with a hunch or have sloppy posture, opt for yoga classes to improve your posture. It is one of the best ways to fix poor posture as specific asanas and movements are meant to give you a stronger back and shoulders.
Improves body image: Body image issues have become the Frankenstein of our times, with tweens and teens struggling with it in a culture influenced by celebs sporting washboard abs and six-pack muscles. Yoga is a non-judgmental spiritual philosophy that helps in maintaining a fit body and assists weight loss in a holistic fashion (read without resorting to crash diets). Plus, it gives you a realistic approach towards life and life situations.
Develops discipline & dutifulness: There is a reason why yoga is called a science as several studies have shown that it reduces irritability, increases patience and improves attention span – a must for doing well in studies and even extra-curricular activities.
Encourages creativity: Yoga sharpens the mind and develops physical and mental flexibility, which in turn, encourages creativity. So, if you want to be the ace speaker in your school’s smart debating society, be assured that resorting to yoga will help you become more creative.
Busts stress: According to a study published in the journal ‘Frontiers in Immunology’, yoga can reverse DNA reactions that cause stress and depression. The study showed that people who practice yoga reduce the production of inflammatory gene expression pattern in human bodies that increase the risk of depression and other mental illnesses. Need more reasons to join the yoga bandwagon?
Yoga gets a cool makeover
This spiritual fitness regime has adapted to the contemporary world by adding many quirky and interesting forms to the original practice. Check this out, get a mat, and join in
Doga: This combination is about doing your asanas along with dog’s cuddles. A cute form, it is great for pooch lovers.
Voga: It is a blend of yoga and voguing dance form. Play a fun musical score in the background and get going.
Pole Yoga: Move over the mundane and go for pole yoga. It is believed to be beneficial for giving strength to the body.
Paddleboard Yoga: This yoga form combines the power of exercising in the outdoors, specifically near a water body. Here, you can do your asanas on a paddleboard. Sounds fun, isn’t it!