Om. Namaste. Asana.
All three terms have one thing in common — yoga.
Each has a different meaning, but can be traced back to the same ancient and meditative practice thousands of people across the globe have come to know and love.
Whether it’s yin, Bikram, vinyasa or ashtanga, each type of yoga practice comes with a multitude of restorative benefits.From cardiovascular health to increased mental well-being, there isn’t much one can’t accomplish with a nice, relaxing practice on the mat.
Today, many people have incorporated yoga into their daily lives as a way to stay fit, or, in my case, stay sane.
Yoga gives me the power to be a better human in every aspect of my life.
I have been practicing nearly every day for just a little over three years, and, to be completely honest, I have no idea what I would do without it.
Yoga is my safe place. My escape. My mini-vacation from reality.
At first, I was hesitant to begin practicing — yoga can be intimidating. From learning the names of each pose to building up my strength and flexibility, I was uneasy.
However, it only took this one class for me to realize how great yoga can truly be.
By building up the courage to attend class, I learned that each person’s practice is unique and it doesn’t matter what level you are at. Despite my inexperienced self, I still received all of the same benefits.
With the constant stresses of life and the anxiety that comes with balancing work and classes, yoga has helped me through it all.
College is demanding and it is important students find healthy ways to cope with hardships life throws at us.
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 41.6 percent of college students stated anxiety as their top presenting concern regarding mental health.
Thankfully, yoga can help.
Yoga practice can be an effective way to help combat anxiety and depression due to the stress-reducing techniques it offers, like meditation, relaxation and exercise, according to Harvard Medical School’s “Harvard Publishing.”
Savannah Cardon | Argonaut
Not only can yoga boost mental health, it is also a great way to stay physically healthy.
Yoga is effective in reducing heart rate, lowering blood pressure and easing respiration. Additionally, yoga practices can help increase heart rate variability, according to Harvard Publishing.
Through poses like downward-facing dog to warrior variations, yogi’s are guaranteed to build muscle and overall strength in their bodies.
Yoga has helped me grow as a person — both physically and mentally — and has brought me benefits both on and off the mat. It brings a sense of unity and mindfulness with each pose I would have never experienced had I not attended that first class.
Stepping off of my mat and into the world, I am a more relaxed person — one who is ready to take on each challenge life throws my way.
There is a yoga style for everyone, and various classes are offered all across the Palouse.
The University of Idaho offers yoga classes for credit and through the Student Recreation Center. Studios can be found in both Moscow and Pullman, and many offer student discounts.
So, if you are on the fence about attending yoga, I highly encourage it. Incorporating practice into everyday life will bring endless benefits you don’t want to miss out on.
Savannah Cardon can be reached at [email protected]