Yoga offers many physical and mental health benefits, including improved flexibility, increased strength and muscle tone, improved posture, improved respiration, increased energy, improved concentration, improved cardiovascular health, improved joint health, improved digestion, improved balance, and improved mental clarity. Additionally, yoga can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and can help improve overall well-being.
It depends on your goals and the type of yoga you are practicing. Generally, it is recommended to practice yoga at least three times a week for best results. However, if you are just starting out, it is best to start with one or two sessions a week and gradually increase the frequency as you become more comfortable with the poses.
The best time to do yoga is in the morning, when your body and mind are fresh and energized. Doing yoga in the morning can help you start your day with a sense of calm and focus. It can also help you set the tone for the rest of your day.
Some women prefer to pause their yoga practice when they have their period while others keep going. Many teachers advise not to do inversions such as Headstand, Handstand, Shoulderstand where the head is lower than the heart as they feel they interrupt the downward flow. Strong yoga twists may also be uncomfortable for some women. It really depends on the individual so listen to what your body tells you.
You can eat before yoga. However, it is best to eat a light snack or meal at least one hour before your yoga session. Eating too close to your yoga session may cause discomfort or nausea. However, it is important to listen to your body and adjust your practice accordingly. You may want to avoid poses that require a lot of abdominal strength or inversions, as these can be uncomfortable during menstruation.
You can still do yoga. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program. Your doctor can help you determine which poses and modifications are best for your health condition.
Even if you practice once a week, you’ll feel the difference. If you can, try to practice two to three times a week but don’t let unrealistic expectations stop you from doing shorter practices. 10 or 20 minutes is better than doing nothing at all. In short, do what you can, when you can. Focus on, and be proud of what you do, rather than focusing on what you think you should be doing.