5 Ways in which Yoga Affects the Nervous System

Yoga is a practice, a method, a way of life, which has many effects on our existence and functions of the body, mind and soul. We can live the positive changes in a gross level -flexibility, strength, endurance- or a more subtle one -inner balance, mind stillness, concentration-, even from the very beginning on our yoga path.

Today I am going to focus on the “subtle” effects of yoga, especially on the nervous system, 5 of which are the following:

1. Stimulation of the Parasympathetic Nervous System

Yoga practices, especially slow, deep breathing and gentle postures, stimulate the PNS. It helps in controlling the "rest-and-digest" response, promoting a deep feeling and state of relaxation.

2. Decrease of Cortisol Levels

Regular yoga practice lowers cortisol levels, especially in those with high-stress lifestyles, and this leads to a better stress management.

3. Effects on Heart Rate Variability(HRV)

Yoga and pranayama practices improve HRV by enhancing vagal tone which supports the ability to stay calm under stressful conditions.

4. Increase in production of Neurotransmitters of relaxation

Neurotransmitters linked to relaxation, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), improve mood and reduce anxiety and depression, and with the practice of yoga we have an increase in these neurotransmitters.

5. Regulation of the Amygdala-brain’s fear and stress center

Mindfulness and meditation practices help in the regulation of the amygdala, thus they reduce its reactivity, and the individual manages stress more effectively.

Incorporate a yoga practice to your daily life

As we can see, decrease of stress levels and increase of the sense of relaxation are the standard positive effects of a regular and consistent yoga practice, which effects lead to a more balanced, joyful and healthy lifestyle.

It is never too late to incorporate some sort of yoga practice to your every day schedule. The least certain outcome would be the body-mind benefits you would gain through this engagement to your self-development.

Seek for an experienced yoga teacher, either in person or online, and make this gift to yourself. You totally deserve it!

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