From Yoga as Medicine by Timothy McCall:
How Yoga Works
“Many of Yoga’s benefits can be explained in ways that conform with Western ways of knowing. Here are forty ways that yoga facilitates better health, both as prevention and as treatment, that are supported by evidence. While it would have been possible to choose others, the mechanisms of action selected provide a broad overview of how yogic tools including asana (poses), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation can improve health.”
40 Ways Yoga Heals
- Increases flexibility
- Strengthens muscles
- Improves balance
- Improves immune function
- Improves posture
- Improves lung function
- Leads to slower and deeper breathing
- Discourages mouth breathing
- Increase oxygenation of tissues
- Improves joint health
- Nourishes Inter-vertebral disc
- Improves return of venous blood
- Increases circulation of lymph
- Improves function of the feet
- Improves proprioceptive receptors
- Increases control of bodily functions
- Strengthens bones
- Conditions the cardiovascular system
- Promotes weight loss
- Relaxes the nervous system
- Improves the function of the nervocs system
- Improves brain funtion
- Activates the left pcre-frontal cortext
- Changes neurotransmitter levels
- Lowers levels of the stress hormonoe cortisol
- Lowers blood sugar
- Lowers blood pressure
- Improves levels of cholesterol and triglycerides
- Thins the blood
- Improves bowel functions
- Releases unconcsious muscular gripping
- Uses imagery to effect change in the body
- Relieves pain
- Lowers need for medication
- Fosters healing relationships
- Improves psychological health
- Leads to healthier habits
- Fosters spritual growth
- Elicits the placebo effect
- Encourages involvement in your own healing