The multiple aspects of the practice of yoga promote the health of the body, mind, and spirit. An individual's yoga practice provides a gradual challenge for growth or improvement in any or all of these areas. Yoga is beneficial for anyone. It is particularly ideal for infants and children whose neurodevelopment has been challenged.
Central Nervous System
Techniques from the practice of yoga that affect the nervous system include breathing practices (pranayama) and the focus required for attaining and holding the postures (asanas). Breathing through the sinuses with a particular technique stimulates both sides of the brain. Yoga increases the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to a calmer state. The focus required during the practice of yoga trains the mind to control outside stimuli and distractions, improving attention.
Vestibular System
Positions in yoga engage the vestibular system, providing input to the nerves in all areas of the body and provides a well integrated experience of the position of the body in space in a very intentional approach.
Respiratory
Breathing techniques are used to expand the lungs and control the breath. The yoga postures require the development of both. Proper deep breathing improves the health of the lungs and increases overall oxygenation of the blood.
Internal Organs
Yoga postures bring increased blood flow (oxygenation) to the organs. This improves overall health of the organs and can decrease complications such as constipation.
Endocrine Glands
Yoga postures stimulate the endocrine glands (e.g., thyroid, pituitary, pineal) leading to a healthier immune system and systems dependent upon the glands.
Physical/Motor
Yoga postures increase muscle and tendon strength, balance, and range of motion. Postures and movement also increase bone density. Posture is improved through aligning the spine which results in decreased tension and pain.