As Spring gets closer with each day, we tend to feel a weight lift from the winter blues. This boosts our motivation to exercise; however, we should exercise regularly–whether it’s our minds or bodies. 

Yoga is a type of exercise that feeds the mind, body and soul full of positivity and benefits. Here are five reasons why yoga should be added to your regular schedule to maintain a healthy mental attitude, and stretches to try:

Yoga can help you sleep better

According to Hopkinsmedicine.org, having a constant bedtime yoga routine prepares your body to fall and stay asleep at night. There is also research showing that it can prepare you to get into a calming mindset, ready for a peaceful rest. 

Poses to help you sleep better include the Child’s Pose and Legs On The Wall Pose.

Yoga can improve your mood 

According to Healthharvard.edu, yoga can elevate levels of a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid, which is associated with a decrease in anxiety and an overall better mood. 

Poses to improve your mood include the Tree Pose and the Cobra Pose.

Yoga can help you manage stress

Regular yoga exercises can boost the effects of less stress and have the ability to manage those stress levels. According to Healthline.com, 84% of Americans reported that they feel the impacts of prolonged stress. Having a daily yoga routine can help shape a better quality of life with decreased stress. 

Poses to help manage stress include the Stick Pose and the Corpse Pose. 

Yoga increases strength

Yoga is often associated with stretching and becoming flexible, however there are also strength building lessons that can help target both upper and lower limbs. 

Poses to help build strength include the Plank Pose and Warrior Pose. 

Yoga can reduce anxiety

There are numerous studies uncovering yoga’s benefits to treating anxiety disorders. According to Healthline.com, certain poses can help reduce the production of stress hormones, like cortisol and adrenaline, resulting in a more peaceful existence. 

Poses to help reduce anxiety include the Bridge Pose and Child’s Pose

Yoga has many benefits that can cure different areas of struggle in our lives. Doing simple stretches doesn’t always have to have a spiritual connection, but can be something to make our bodies feel relaxed. If interested in starting a yoga routine, there are sessions held in the project room during Tuesday SRT, hosted by Mrs. Hassell and Sunny.