The Benefits of Yoga For Arthritis
The practice of yoga is a combination of meditation, exercises and postures, as well as breathing techniques. The benefits of yoga are not only exercise, but also improvement of mental and physical health, and many people find it a helpful part of living with arthritis. It is also simple to begin as an everyday routine and easy on your joints. Below we have outlined 4 of the many benefits of yoga for arthritis.
1. Supports everyday joint comfort
Yoga is an excellent example of low impact exercise for your joints, and it promotes healthy body weight, flexibility, and stability. Regular yoga practice has been studied for its effects on joint discomfort, muscle stiffness, and overall comfort, though results vary from person to person. By keeping your joints flexible and maintaining your range of motion, you may find everyday movement more comfortable.
2. Reduces stress
Yoga's mental components include introspective thought and meditation. These practices aim to bring about mindfulness of negative feelings such as anxiety and discomfort, finding their sources, and learning to relax them. Yoga is a way of developing communication with your own body. This communication allows for self-management of your mind and emotions. By becoming aware during your practice you will become calmer and less stressed.
3. Improve joint flexibility
For stronger joints and greater everyday comfort, flexibility is key. Stretching is good, but you can take this a step farther by practicing yoga. Because yoga's postures and movements are slow and fluid, it allows the joints to easily move over one another enabling mobility and strength, without causing more damage. Flexibility also makes it easier for you to move and complete your daily tasks.
4. It is gentle enough to do every day
The best part about yoga is that it is an exercise regimen that is gentle enough to do every day. It is important to have an instructor who knows your needs and can give you correct poses that suit your circumstances. Most yoga poses can be modified to fit your situation. Yoga is a gentle alternative to many weight-bearing exercises that may further stress weak joints; it actually strengthens the muscles around them. With that being said, we recommend not overdoing it and taking a day off if your joints require it.
All types of exercise can be beneficial for arthritis, but yoga offers both mental and physical health benefits. You can lower stress, work on flexibility, and complete low impact exercise all at once. Over time, a regular practice may help you build strength around your joints and feel more comfortable day to day. It can also be an easy complement to a broader joint health routine that includes natural joint supplements.
Not sure which joint supplement fits your routine? Browse our joint supplements.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement.