Benefits of Hatha Yoga Practice

Effects of Yoga, Breathwork & Meditation

by Marianne Woods Cirone, M.S., R.Y.T., Certified Yoga Teacher

Practicing hatha yoga can yield a vast array of benefits which practitioners often claim create a complete reversal of medical conditions. The benefits will vary based on the poses practiced, and the intensity (measured by awareness, not sweat) and duration and frequency of practice. The benefits of hatha yoga practice have been passed down through the oral tradition over thousands of years. Today, modern scientists confirm the benefits of yoga practice for general health and well-being, as well as a therapy for certain medical conditions. Listed below are some of the benefits of a practice of yoga postures, breathing, and meditation, according to the stunning book Yoga: The Path to Holistic Health by B.K.S. Iyengar and other sources.

General Benefits

Relieves fatigue and boosts energy levels
Stimulates glands and functioning of the immune system, enhances recovery from illnesses
Reduces the effects of stress
Improves focus, concentration and mood
Alleviates insomnia
Spiritual, intellectual and creative energies are released
Counters obesity, assists in normalization of weight
Can support treatment of addictions and eating disorders
Cardiovascular Benefits

Can normalize blood pressure
Tones the muscles of the heart
Can help to reduce cardiac disorders, part of a program by Dr. Dean Ornish to reverse heart disease
Improves circulation, minimizes varicose veins
Musculoskeletal Benefits

Lengthens the spine and improves its alignment
Corrects bad posture
Counters the effects of aging on the spine and bones, tones muscles
Prevents osteoporosis, builds bone
Prevents hernia
Prevents and treats back problems, including disc conditions; decompresses the spine
Relieves sciatic and arthritis pain, can retard the progress of arthritis
Keeps muscles flexibility and joints movable
Corrects flat feet
Relieves lower backache
Respiratory Benefits

Improves breathing capacity
Studies show improvement in asthmatic symptoms
Can improve sinus conditions
Increases the elasticity of lung tissue
Hormonal Benefits

Normalizes the menstrual cycle, checks heavy menstrual flow and relieves menstrual pain
Helps to prevent hot flashes
Can increase fertility
Digestive Benefits

Rejuvenates abdominal organs and improves digestion
Can improve hemorrhoids, constipation and flatulence
Relieves stomach ache, reduces gatritis and acidity
Helps calm irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers and colitis