Photo by Jennifer Ryan Jones If you’re feeling stressed out, tight and out of shape then you may want to hit the yoga mat. Yeah, yeah we know. You don’t Namaste. But seriously, trying a Hatha, Ashtanga, Bikram, Vinyasa, or Restorative yoga class can change your life while vastly improving your health. The downward dog isn’t just for ladies wearing Lululemon. Mindful yoga postures are practiced by pro athletes across all sports, rock stars and actors alike. But the benefits go beyond stretching out a tight hammy. These five reasons for practicing yoga for men are just scratching the surface.
Better Flexibility
Duh! Improving your flexibility increases your range motion, improves your posture and decreases your risk of injury. How? Warming up your muscles increases the blood flow making them more elastic and pliable. A good stretch also helps you stay on top of your game by speeding muscle recovery, which is why pro ballers like Shaq and LeBron practice yoga.
Improved Immune System
A yoga class a day will keep the doctor away. Researchers have found that practicing yoga benefits the body's defense system at the cellular level. Holding these poses can knock out the flu and other viruses while improving your nervous system and gut health. Not feeling well? Sweat it out.
Increased focus
Yoga for men can keep you in the zone even after you roll up your mat. Practicing Tree or Dancer’s Pose requires concentration. Calming your mind and learning to keep distracting thoughts at bay while staying balanced can increase your focus and help you stay on task throughout the day.
Reduces Stress
Chronic stress can lead to depression, pain, heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, and insomnia. Practicing yoga can help. The breath work in this moving meditation can help you control your body, quiet your mind and leave you in a much less reactive, happier mood.
Better Sex
Yep! According to Men’s Journal, “Time spent on the mat can greatly enhance your time spent between the sheets. There are a few avenues in which yoga can improve your sex life. One, it makes you more flexible—enough said. Two, it helps reduce anxiety and increases body awareness and confidence. Finally, on a physical level, it speeds the release of hormones that boost arousal and increase blood flow to the genital area, which is important for erections.” Hey, it works for Sting.
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