When it comes to heart-healthy exercises, yoga may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But anyone who has spent time at a yoga studio knows that this mind-body exercise can get your heart pumping. As it turns out, yoga is good for you, but how does it benefit the cardiovascular system?
Can You Be Too Old for Yoga?
Yoga has become increasingly popular among young adults. Studios are beginning to pop up everywhere for those looking to better their mind and body. You may investigate a yoga class and think, “I’m not that flexible, I can’t do that.” In reality, there is a type of yoga for everyone.
Ashtanga Classes
Ashtanga classes focus on conscious breathing and meditation. People with limited mobility and energy may benefit from this form of yoga.
Online Yoga
Online yoga courses are a good alternative if you feel a studio's yoga course may be too intense. YouTube and fitness coach websites both offer yoga programs that are suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Custom Classes
Talk to the yoga instructor before starting a course. Many instructors are willing to work one-on-one to help you get started. They can work at your pace until you feel ready to join a group class. Look for a qualified instructor with certifications and experience.
The above course offerings are beneficial for any age group. When you start, you may find you can’t touch your toes. But, with some patience and practice, even the least flexible person will see huge benefits in mobility and overall health.
Yoga and the Cardiovascular System
Yoga affects cardiovascular health in several ways. Some postures (or asanas) and certain forms of yoga, such as vinyasa or ashtanga, can raise the heart rate to aerobic levels. Heat-building postures – such as Navasana (Boat Pose), Utkatasana (Chair Pose), and Dolphin Plank – increase heart strength when held for long periods of time.
Other gentler forms of yoga can benefit the heart by helping the blood flow more efficiently.
A 2019 study found significant blood pressure benefits for people who practice yoga. This was especially true for people engaging in hot yoga; a yoga course that uses heated studios.
Several people with elevated blood pressure saw their blood pressure drop significantly after 12 weeks of hot yoga. In the same study, those people who did not attend yoga saw no decrease in blood pressure in that 12-week period.
Heart-opening postures improve blood flow to the chest while stretching the front of the body. As a result, more oxygen-rich blood enters the heart space.
Yoga and Vein Health
We know that yoga can benefit cardiovascular health, but what about vein health? In a way, the two go hand in hand.
There are certain postures that can help varicose veins. This is particularly true for positions where the lower legs are elevated above the heart. These positions make it easier for veins to push blood back to the heart.
Postures that engage the calf muscles can have the same effect while alleviating pain and pressure.
Original Source: https://njvvc.com/does-yoga-benefit-the-cardiovascular-system/
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