As midterms approach and the leaves begin to fall, it’s easy to put exercise on the back burner. Instead of bundling up and watching Netflix all afternoon, you should start practicing yoga! All you need is a mat, a pair of yoga pants, and an open mind.
Here are some benefits of practicing yoga:
1. It’s a two-for-one deal. Yoga is great because it gives you a chance to rejuvenate your body and mind. You get to take an hour out of your day and truly live in the present, without worrying about any past mistakes or future commitments. This pause is extremely calming and centering, which is pretty important for anyone’s mental health. So while you’re doing your downward dog, you’re working on both your body and mind!
2. Who doesn’t love wearing yoga pants?I’m fairly certain this one is self-explanatory. Yoga pants are arguably the most comfortable pants ever. Yet so many girls wear yoga pants without ever actually practicing yoga… Don’t be a poser. Go to a yoga class.
3. You’ll improve your flexibility.
This can help you in all kinds of aspects. Increased flexibility leads to better posture, less back pain, and a smaller chance of injury in any other activities by improving your range of motion. Stretching is important!
4. It’s a great alternative to running on a treadmill.
Most gyms (especially on college campuses) offer group exercise classes, including yoga. These are far more fun and relaxing than running on a treadmill and you can even bring your girlfriends to class with you. If you’re going to the gym already, you might as well do something enjoyable!
5. It’s low-impact.
This is perfect because everyone can practice yoga, regardless of skill level, age, or flexibility. You can modify poses to fit your ability and gradually increase difficulty as time passes. This is great with people for bad knees, stiff backs, tight shoulders, etc. (Running on a treadmill is bad for you knees. Treadmills suck.)
6. It’s a great way to relieve stress.This is similar to my first point; yoga is a fantastic stress reliever. Meditation during practice gives you a chance to search within and re-center your thoughts. Savasana (also known as Corpse Pose) is a position practiced at the end of most yoga classes that allows for relaxation and internal reflection. Perfect for upcoming midterms or finals!
7. There are different types for everybody!Some of the most popular types of yoga include Hatha, Vinyasa, Bikram, and Ashtanga. Hatha is great for beginners – a gentle practice that’s very popular. Vinyasa focuses on breathing and constant transitions. With Bikram (also known as hot yoga), you practice in a room at about 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Ashtanga focuses on six poses and allows you to move at your own pace. This list is not exhaustive, but just some of the most popular styles. (My favorite is Vinyasa!)
I hope after reading this list, you’re inspired to put on your comfiest yoga pants, grab your mat, and practice some yoga!