Should men start yoga? Yoga has become an extremely popular hobby, especially among women. That doesn’t mean men should shy away from taking several moments to themselves each and every day. In fact, men can benefit tremendously with yoga — both mentally and physically.
There are a lot of men that endure long days at work and that non-stop movement can have negative downfalls when it comes to your body. Although working out, lifting weights, and doing cardio is the preferred method of relieving stress in men, yoga can act as a great counterpart to that.
Many athletes and gym-goers use yoga as a warm-up or cool-down for their workouts, while some simply use it for their off days. Yoga can be used in a variety of ways, but will ultimately be the missing link to your daily routine.
There are many things that might stop you, even if you agree men should start yoga! Some are just too shy to start something new, some don’t know where to start, or think they’re not flexible enough. The truth is, anyone and everyone should take advantage of yoga because like anything else, it’s something that you eventually get better at.
Plus, there are instructors and classes designed for everyone, no matter your knowledge or experience with yoga.
Physical Benefits
If you’re going back-and-forth with yourself on whether to start yoga or not, some simple research might give you the answer you’re looking for. With all the physical benefits stemming from yoga, it’s going to be tough to tell your body “no.”
Here’s a list of some of the major physical benefits one can receive from yoga:
- Improved flexibility
- Great way of preventing injury
- Enhanced muscle strength and tone
- Promotes cardio and circulatory health
- Easy way to lose weight
- Improved metabolism
- Higher energy and respiratory levels
- Makes your body feel young again (or continue feeling younger)
Much like other forms of working out, yoga will ultimately make your body feel brand new each and every day. All of those aches, difficult times getting out of bed, and unhealthy eating habits will be a thing of the past!
Mental Benefits
In addition to the physical side of things, mental health is another reason men should try yoga. We all experience different levels of stress, anxiety, and frustration throughout the day. Sometimes these emotions are tough to manage and can have a negative effect on the outcome of your day.
Yoga can help relieve all of this by putting you in a moment of zen and peace. I’ve been in studios around the world and I have never seen a class hold any amounts of negativity. Two important aspects of yoga are meditation and breathing, which allows your body and mind a moment to reset.
As a result, you will walk away with that same “brand new” feeling that you got physically, just mentally. Not only will you be much more alert throughout the day, but you will have an overall improved mood.
All in all, yoga is a great way to keep your body and mind balanced daily. Hopefully you agree that men should start yoga! It is 100% beginner-friendly and will always welcome newcomers, so don’t just take my word for it — give it a try yourself today!