Scientific Validation of Yoga

Science of Yoga- A Historical Overview

Yoga is a highly inclusive process that fine tunes the process of merging individual consciousness with the overall consciousness. While the physical postures, exercises, and breathing practices have their own importance, the overall philosophy of yoga is much more important in the grander scheme of things.

The word “yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root word “yuj”, which means “to bind”, where the underlying theme defines any kind of connection.

The scientific validation of yoga relating to the physical aspects of life lead to the improvement of health and enhancement of strength in our body Over the years, there have been multiple research findings that have validated this ancient science and its relevance in the modern world.

Let’s have a look at some of the studies pertaining to various health-related issues and how yoga plays a part in each of them.

Scientific Validation of Yoga with Modern Studies

Is yoga scientifically proven?
This has always been a question when we talk about yoga and its ability to offer health benefits unlike other health practices.

Cardiovascular Health

The therapeutic effects of yoga have been validated across different medical conditions such as cardiovascular, respiratory, psychopathological, and metabolic ailments. In fact, yoga is becoming the therapy of preference to various health-related issues.

It is also being stated that practicing yoga for cardiovascular health improves CVD outcomes through two pathways- the vagal stimulation and parasympathetic activation.

Mental Health
Breathing practices and meditation help in calming and stabilizing the mind, and both these things are results of regular yoga practice. This is why reduced anxiety and depression are among the positive physiological effects of yoga.
Yoga fosters the growth of cells in the brain, resulting in improved cognitive functions and skills like memory and learning. Studies have shown that regular yoga practitioners had a more consolidated cerebral cortex and hippocampus as compared to non-practitioners.

Endocrine and Metabolic Health
Many scientific studies have shown that practicing yoga regularly has a positive impact over the autonomic nervous system. Yoga has also been proven to boost the immunity levels in the body without external stimuli, offering a harmonious balance between the outside world and our body.
The secretion of sympathetic hormones such as catecholamine and cortisol is directly affected with yoga, helping to improve parasympathetic activity and reduced metabolic rates in the process.

Quality of Life
Yoga, since quite a while now, has been adopted by people struggling to cope with hectic lifestyles and subsequent issues such as anxiety, stress, insomnia, and depression. With yoga, studies have been able to prove a positive impact as it allows to relax breathing, and focus on the present self, changing focus from a flight-or-fight response to a relaxation response.

The health benefits of yoga asanas lead to tranquility of the mind, instil feelings of relaxation, improved efficiency and self-confidence, and a positive perception to life. It enables the generation of balanced energy, which is crucial for proper functioning of the immune system.

Mechanisms of Actions Behind Yoga Asanas

The science of yoga is so deep and accurate that the action of each asana is backed by solid reasoning.

What are the benefits of yoga asanas?

Yoga asanas are very powerful, and they have a lot of impact on multiple major areas of the human body.

Have a look.

Nervous System Effects
Yoga asanas are known to have a huge impact on the body’s nervous system, as it activates the parasympathetic nervous system. It helps in reducing muscle stress, reduces stress, and helps managing the body’s response to stimuli. Deep breathing techniques help in releasing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, reducing overall anxiety and enhancing the mood.
Hormonal Balance
Regulation of the endocrine system is also influenced by yoga asanas, helping maintain the right balance and hormone production. The physical postures of the asanas and regulated breathing help in releasing endorphins, boosting the senses for positivity and well-being. Some asanas also target specific glands as well, helping to stabilize stress in the process.
Circulatory and Respiratory Improvements
Yoga poses aid in improved circulation with better blood flow throughout the body, especially in areas that may be a little less active in our daily routines. The stretching movements improve vascular health and can lower the blood pressure by advocating relaxation. With practices like the Pranayama, practitioners witness improved respiration as they help to increase lung capacity and enhance oxygenation in the blood.

Conclusion

While the scientific validation of yoga as a practice, there’s little room for doubt that it has a positive and life-altering effect on lives. By making yoga a part of everyday routines, you not just improve the overall quality of your life, but also imbibe a calm and relaxed vibe to your overall philosophy.

With Yogabase as the best yoga studio in London, you get the best of what yoga can offer to you, in a way that you want!