By fitlifemonthly 
A yoga body isn’t just about flexible limbs; this ancient practice can boost memory, heart health, and bone strength, according to Anna Magee. We’ve become a nation hooked on downward dogs and cat-cows, spending an impressive £790 million annually on yoga sessions and mats.
Yoga might seem to be getting stranger with rage yoga, naked yoga, and even dog yoga, but science keeps proving its real benefits. A UCLA study found three months of yoga and meditation more effective than memory exercises at reducing age-related brain decline. Another study revealed that yoga could improve sleep in breast cancer survivors.
Lucy Edge, 53, a former advertising executive, turned to yoga instead of antidepressants during a deep depression. After a six-month break to learn yoga in India, she returned happier and more content despite not achieving the “yoga goddess” body. Lucy has since written three books on yoga and founded Yoga Meds, listing over 300 clinical trials showing yoga’s benefits for issues from arthritis to insomnia.
If you’ve been relying on crossword puzzles and Sudoku for memory training, it might be time to try a warrior pose. UCLA research showed that a 12-week course of yoga and meditation improved memory, reduced depression, and increased stress resilience better than memory exercises in older adults.
For heart health, a review published in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology in 2014 found that yoga could lower the risk of heart disease as effectively as brisk walking. Stress reduction, a big contributor to heart health, is one reason yoga is beneficial. Practicing yoga has been linked to improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight, which are all risk factors for heart disease.
To get started, gentle yoga poses or Restorative yoga, where postures are supported with bolsters and cushions, can be very helpful. Charlotte Watts, a yoga teacher and nutritional therapist, suggests these gentler poses for beginners aiming to reduce stress.
Yoga is also effective for back pain and incontinence, especially through poses that strengthen pelvic floor muscles and weight-bearing exercises that increase bone density. For these benefits, choosing styles like Hatha or Iyengar yoga can be beneficial, especially if you’re just starting.
Finally, selecting the right yoga mat is crucial. Consider where you’ll store it, its weight for carrying, and its thickness if you need extra joint support. Thicker mats provide more cushion, which is essential for those with knee or wrist issues. For example, the Elephant Cork Yoga mat from Valka Yoga is eco-friendly, antimicrobial, and provides excellent joint support.
Yoga blocks can also make challenging poses easier by adding extra length and stability. Props like blocks are helpful for beginners and advanced practitioners alike to enhance their practice.
No matter your flexibility level, there’s a yoga style for everyone. Options range from gentle Yin or Restorative yoga to the precise and alignment-focused Iyengar yoga, energetic Vinyasa Flow, or the upbeat Anusara yoga. For injury or illness recovery, Yoga Therapy offers a specialized approach.
Whether you’re new to yoga or experienced, using the right props can help perfect your practice. Embrace the benefits of yoga for a healthier body and mind.