As someone who mostly enjoys doing Olympic Weightlifting, high intensity, or strength training workouts, I have really enjoyed adding yoga into my routine. Practicing yoga has shown me a lot of physical and mental benefits.
Initially, I thought yoga was slow, hard, and quite boring. I would try to rush through poses depleting the benefits and not seeing any results. However, then I started focusing on what I was doing and gaining self awareness. I have seen improvements since specifically in balance, flexibility, and stability. The slower tempo allows blood flow to get to the muscles and creates some heat. Holding the poses allows for strength benefits. The different poses and movements creates adaptability and keeps it entertaining.
Yoga is a very effective stress reducer. The breathing through the movements allows you to help control your heart rate. It can be used as a meditative practice to help control your mind. It helps me to take in the present moment and not worry about the past or future. Focus on the stillness that is trying to be achieved through movement. This will help relax your mind and body.
Try adding yoga into your routine and see the impacts on you. Come check out the yoga class at Pittsburgh FIT every other Sunday!
Grace Dickinson