The 6 psychological benefits of yoga

Yoga is a physical and mental ancient practice that has been expanding worldwide because of its benefits a mentally stable and guarantees a firm body and benevolent spirit. 
It is an ancient art that has amply shown that it can improve our quality of life, not only physically but also mentally and spiritually.

Psychology and yoga

It comprises postures (asanas), relaxation (savasana), meditation ( dhyana ), breathing ( pranayama ), kriyas (cleanings), mudras (energy stamps), kirtan (chants), mantra or rituals. Besides exercise, for many, it is a way of life that seeks well-being, inner peace and implies a lifestyle that commits to observing ethical guidelines, principles of life, and adequate nutrition.
Yoga achieves the integration of movement with breathing until they stop being two separate entities and become one. Its practice becomes a powerful transformation agent that causes profound changes in our health. In fact, its use is seen as a preventive or rehabilitative medicine because it stimulates metabolic and anabolic processes and improves energy circulation, oxygenating the body. When we talk about yoga, we can not only refer to the physiological benefits (for example, increased flexibility, decreased muscle stiffness, etc.), but we have to mention the positive consequences it produces on the mind, emotional well-being, and the brain.
Next, from Psychology and Mind, we present the six psychological benefits of practicing yoga.

  1. Reduce stress

The lifestyle of western societies can lead many people to suffer stress, causing psychological health problems such as depression, anxiety ,etc. A study by Thirthalli and Naveen (2013) shows that yoga treatment reduces levels of cortisol, a hormone that is released in response to stress. 
Cortisol is necessary for the body since it regulates and mobilizes energy in stressful situations, but if we have too much or increase it in situations we don’t need it, it produces many side effects. Practicing yoga we can lower the levels of this hormone and therefore reduce stress.

  1. Improve sleep

The serotonin (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter that is derived from an amino acid called tryptophan. It sends messages within the brain and through the nervous system and takes part in many processes such as regulating mood or appetite. In addition, one of its principal tasks is to increase the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep cycles. 
To achieve a peaceful rest, serotonin also intervenes in the control of stress and body temperature. “Practicing yoga increases serotonin levels so it helps you sleep better,” explains Dr. Murali Doraiswam, author of a study from Duke University that included a review of over 100 research papers on yoga.

  1. Improve mood


As we have commented on the previous point, serotonin (5-HT) also regulates mood. Low 5-HT levels are associated with depressive and obsessive behaviors. Research by Cabral, Meyer, and Ames (2011) found that regular yoga practice produces significant improvements in patients with depression and anxiety similar to physical exercise, because of the increase in serotonin. 
Another neurotransmitter that seems to influence this aspect is GABA. A recent study from Boston University and the University of Utah has shown that an increase in this neurotransmitter also occurs in yoga practitioners.

  1. It lengthens life and prevents degenerative diseases

American researchers at the Harvard University School of Medicine and Massachusetts General Hospital have shown, after a study, that yoga and meditation increase the size of telomeres, structures that are located at the ends of chromosomes and that are directly related to aging, the development of certain pathologies and even premature death. 
The study concludes that there seems to be a positive correlation between healthy and large telomeres, and increased longevity, the prevention of degenerative diseases, and people’s health. Doing yoga for only 15 minutes a day is enough to produce biochemical changes in the brain and neurons.

  1. 5. Improve concentration

    Yoga practitioners improve concentration, coordination, reaction time, memory, learning, and show increased problem-solving ability according to a study by Neha Gothe, a professor at Wayne State University in Detroit. According to their research, published in The Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 20 minutes of yoga a day is more cognitively beneficial than a session of intense physical activity.

  1. 6. Improves the relationship and sexual relations

    According to Pete McCall, an exercise physiologist and personal trainer for the American Council on Exercise: “Yoga can cause better sex because it will help your flexibility and strengthen your pelvic muscles.” A study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine suggests that yoga can treat premature ejaculation and improve sexual satisfaction. 
Also, as other research from British Columbia University mentions, stress reduction from yoga practice increases libido and sexual vitality. Therefore, by improving sex life in unique ways, the relationship may also benefit. 

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