“Patanjali’s eightfold system of yoga contains many elements used in modern treatments for anxiety: cognitive reframing, behavioral recommendations, relaxation techniques focused on breath regulation, mindfulness of sensory input, as well as methods for greater cognitive flexibility, concentration and downregulation of distress.”

As a mind-body practice, yoga allows people to become aware of the link between their minds and bodies in a way which can help them become less anxious. For example, shallow breathing may contribute to a heightened stress response, or repeated patterns of behavior might ultimately worsen overall anxiety (for instance, relying on alcohol to calm down). Yoga increases mind-body awareness, as well as offering a form of relaxation which can replace unhealthy coping mechanisms.

- Yoga for Anxiety article by The Minded Institute

Yoga requires a surprising amount of strength, which is important to help prevent injury and make everyday tasks easier. We increase our strength through repetition and holding poses. We are essentially “weight training” in certain poses by supporting our own body weight in gravity. Over time, we gain more flexibility by practicing yoga regularly and consistently in order to build muscle memory.

In our modern world, our bodies tend to spend a lot of time in our “fight or flight” sympathetic nervous system. This causes stress and inflammation and dramatically lowers the immune system. When we tap into our “rest and digest” parasympathetic nervous system through poses such as twists, inversions and backbends, we give our immune system a boost.

A strong yoga asana practice can help build muscle and breathing fully and deeply increases circulation, both of which can dramatically boost the metabolism.

Moving your body in a sustained and focused way clears stagnation, removes blockages to the flow of energy, and boosts your endorphins.