How Yoga Can Improve Your Longevity & Performance

A strong, healthy man can be a great asset to his family. If you're experiencing physical pain, looking to increase your gains in the gym, or improve your longevity, regular yoga practice may be beneficial. Originating in ancient India, yoga provides spiritual and mindfulness benefits, as well as benefits for longevity and athletic performance.

PREVENTING AND ALLEVIATING INJURIES

Treat the cause not the symptoms; don’t look for a quick fix by taking a pill or going under the knife. Yoga can help prevent or alleviate injuries by improving flexibility and strengthening the body in vulnerable positions. It can also help rebalance the body, relieving any imbalances and reducing the risk of injury. If injured, yoga can aid in rehabilitating the body without the need for surgery.

The founder of SALIENTS, Saj, has two torn hip labrums, torn knee meniscus and two bulging spinal discs (L5-S1, L3-L4) yet is able to squat and deadlift heavy thanks to incorporating yoga. No surgery needed.

If injuries are mismanaged, or prolonged, other parts of your body will try to compensate by taking on additional load or tightening up to keep joints stable. For example, Saj was unable to touch his toes after his two bulging discs for 6 years, only reaching his knees. Yoga helped to alleviate these compensations to where he can now touch the ground!

INCREASED ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

Through yoga, you can increase power, strength, and endurance by learning to become aware of your body's positioning in space and efficiently recruit your muscles during training. Yoga also improves focus, core control, balance, and reduces recovery time between workouts.

REDUCING STRESS AND ANXIETY

Stretching & relaxation poses provide a sense of tranquility and euphoria, which can relieve anxiety and stress. This can improve overall well-being and reduce the risk of conditions that can shorten lifespan.

REDUCING THE RISK OF CHRONIC DISEASES

Chronic inflammation is linked to a number of health conditions that can shorten lifespan, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Yoga has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, by improving joint health, which can help to reduce the risk of these conditions.

CONCLUSION

By promoting physical fitness, reducing stress, improving mental health, and supporting healthy habits, yoga can help to improve longevity and increase overall well-being. It's important to practice yoga regularly over time, even once every two weeks, to feel the benefits. However, attending a yoga class or following along with a pre-recorded YouTube class 2-3 times per week can help make rapid progress. Note that it's best to wait at least 24-36 hours after a yoga session before engaging in strenuous activity that demands stiffness in the body, such as lifting heavy weights or fighting.

References:

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