Reduces Tension & Stress. A healthy yoga practice releases the lactic acid that builds up with muscle use and causes stiffness, tension, pain & fatigue. In addition, yoga increases the range of motion in joints. It may also increase lubrication in the joints. The outcome is a sense of ease and fluidity throughout your body.
Improved Flexibility. Yoga stretches not only your muscles but all of the soft tissues of your body. That includes ligaments, tendons, and the fascia sheath that surrounds your muscles. And no matter your level of yoga, you most likely will see benefits in a very short period of time. In one study, participants had up to 35% improvement in flexibility after only eight weeks of yoga. The greatest gains were in shoulder and trunk flexibility.
Improved Strength & Muscle Tone. Many of the poses simultaneously build both build upper-body and core strength in the deep abdominal muscles, which is instrumental to long term health and wellness.
Improved Posture. With increased flexibility and strength comes better posture. With a stronger core, you're more likely to sit and stand "tall." Another benefit of yoga is the increased body awareness. This heightened awareness tells you more quickly when you're slouching or slumping so you can adjust your posture.