5 surprising benefits of yoga inversions
What's the story
Yoga inversions, where the heart is above the head, provide more than just an interesting point of view. These poses, such as headstands and shoulder stands, are famous for the physical and mental benefits they provide. Although most people practice them for flexibility and strength, there are some lesser-known benefits that can boost your overall well-being. Here are five surprising benefits of yoga inversions.
Circulation
Boosts circulation
Yoga inversions greatly improve blood circulation as they encourage the flow of blood to the brain and the upper body. The increase in circulation helps in better oxygenation of cells and more effective delivery of nutrients all over the body. Consequently, you may find yourself with healthier skin and a more glowing complexion owing to the increased blood flow and nutrient distribution.
Core strength
Enhances core strength
Practicing inversions requires you to engage your core muscles to stay balanced and stable. With time, this engagement strengthens your abdominal muscles, improving your posture and reducing the risk of back pain. A strong core is the foundation of overall physical fitness, and can improve your performance in other activities too.
Stress reduction
Reduces stress levels
Yoga inversions have a remarkable calming effect on the nervous system as they trigger the parasympathetic response. This vital activation plays a key role in minimizing stress levels by efficiently lowering cortisol production in the body. Practicing such inversions regularly can result in a marked improvement in one's mood regulation and a significant decline in symptoms related to anxiety.
Balance & coordination
Improves balance & coordination
Balancing upside down in yoga inversions tests body's proprioception, its ability to feel where it's located in space. This greatly improves balance skills and coordination over time. The enhanced coordination and balance from practicing inversions can improve performance in daily activities, as well as in other sports or exercises that require agility and precision.
Lymphatic support
Supports lymphatic system
Yoga inversions leverage the force of gravity to promote lymphatic drainage, guiding lymph fluids towards essential filtration regions, like the lymph nodes located near the neck. This encourages the body's natural detoxification processes to remove waste products from the body without needing any additional help. Practicing these inversions on a routine basis can help you attain better health and well-being by facilitating an efficient lymphatic system.