This ancient practice holds secrets beyond what most of us imagine: boosting your immune system, calming your nerves, or helping your gut. Yes, your gut.

Give your immune system a boost
The parts of your body that run your immune system, the lymphatic system, should be working properly to stay healthy. Yoga steps in to give it a boost. Shoulder Stands and twists get things moving, flushing out toxins like a juice cleanse without the kale. A healthy lymphatic system means fewer colds and more energy to do more Yoga.

Picture your immune system as a tired bouncer at a nightclub—it needs some TLC to keep the riff-raff out. Yoga enhances blood flow and eases tension. Take the Child’s Pose, for example. It’s as simple as curling up into a comfy ball, yet it’s like whispering sweet nothings to your immune system.

Then there’s Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose. No, it’s not an excuse to lie down and nap, although that’s a bonus—it aids lymphatic drainage and lowers stress. It’s like spring cleaning for your insides and easier than you think.

What’s this about Yoga and the vagus nerve?
Think again if you thought the vagus nerve was a new Yoga studio downtown. The Vagus nerve is your body’s relax button, and Yoga activates it like magic. Breathing deeply or holding gentle stretches sends the vagus nerve a memo: “Relax, buddy. We’ve got this.” Over time, this approach reduces cortisol levels, also known as the stress hormone, and makes anxiety pack its bags. Imagine being zen enough to smile while stuck in traffic—yep, that’s the vagus nerve flexing its muscles.

Gut feelings: How Yoga helps your digestive system
Let’s talk about gut health. Stress turns your digestive system into a chaotic rush-hour subway. Yoga calms the chaos. Have you ever heard of the Wind-Relieving Pose? Yup, as far as the name is concerned, it is quite literal. But it is also helpful in the case of bloating. As for twisting poses, they gently pressure all the internal organs. And this, ladies and gentlemen, results in a better and happier gut.

Bandhas: Yoga’s best-kept secret
Bandhas sound fancy, don’t they? They’re just internal energy locks, like hitting “save” on your body’s power. Mula Bandha (Root Lock) engages your pelvic floor—no, you won’t become a keg of energy overnight, but it does help stabilise your core. And Uddiyana Bandha? That abdominal lock is like telling your digestion to “step up its game”. Mastering bandhas is like finding cheat codes for your Yoga practice. Who doesn’t want that?

Yoga breathing: More than just puffing air
Let’s not underestimate the power of breathing. Kapalabhati, or “Skull-Shining Breath,” sounds like you’re about to star in a mystical sci-fi flick, but it clears your mental fog faster than coffee. And Alternate Nostril Breathing? It’s weirdly calming—like brain Yoga. Try it next time you’re frazzled; it’s like rebooting your mind.

Can Yoga fix your sleep schedule?
Yoga isn’t just good for flexibility; it’s also a sleep whisperer. Poses like Yoga Nidra (basically a guided nap on steroids) reset your internal clock. Once, after a long week, I sank into Yoga Nidra and woke up feeling like I’d had eight hours of spa treatment. It’s not a coincidence. Yoga will be a game-changer for your sleep, offering hope for a restful night’s sleep.

Mudras: Tiny gestures, big impact
Mudras are like little hand signals for your body. Gyan Mudra, formed by touching your thumb to your index finger, is believed to enhance focus. Next time you’re overwhelmed, sit, breathe, and try a mudra. People might stare, but you’ll be the calmest person in the room.

Balance and aging gracefully with Yoga
Ageing isn’t about wrinkles—it’s about not falling over when you tie your shoes. Yoga strengthens your proprioception, or your body’s sense of balance. A Yoga grandma can hold a Tree Pose, better than half the 20-somethings in the class. It turns out that Yoga keeps you steady and strong, no matter your age.

Yoga Nidra vs. Meditation: Which wins?
Yoga Nidra is like the Netflix of relaxation—passive and glorious. You lie down and listen while all your tension fades away. It’s a pleasant little routine that is great when you want to relax after a tiring day. Then there’s meditation, which is more of an effort and actively involved kind of practice.

Both offer great benefits, but Yoga Nidra, whoah, that is the best. It’s important to find the relaxation technique that works best for you. Nidra and meditation can be influential tools in your wellness toolkit.

Ready to roll out your mat?
Yoga isn’t just exercise; it’s a life upgrade. Whether after better sleep, a stronger immune system, or a calmer mind, Yoga has your back (and hamstrings). So, get your mat, try some poses, and wait for the magic to unfold.

Blood flow to the brain? Check. Overall vitality? Check. Graceful execution? Check. You can do it! You can pull off Downward Dog without falling. Kick start your wellness journey in a judgement-free space with an expert, friendly Yoga instructor and like-minded Yoga fans.

Are you keen to try Yoga? Join Virgin Active and book a Yoga class today. Experience the wonders of Yoga for yourself.

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