In recent years, yoga has been on the rise as a trendy workout/exercise. People have sworn that it has totally changed the way they feel and has dramatically improved their mood, and we are here to tell you that yes, the rumors are true: Yoga really is all it’s cracked up to be.

Why, you ask? Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Athens, TN provides some reasoning.

What Is Yoga?

Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word “yuji,” meaning yoke or union, and is an ancient practice that brings together mind and body. Yoga incorporates breathing exercises, meditation and strength-building poses that are designed to encourage relaxation, reduce stress and build muscle.

In the past, yoga was very much a spiritual practice. While it still is for many people, yoga purely viewed as a type of exercise is extremely beneficial for the whole body. Incorporating constant movement and difficult poses, yoga increases your body’s flexibility and muscle tone which can help you avoid future injuries.

Benefits of Yoga

• Can reduce stress and relieve anxiety
• Promotes sleep quality
• Improves balance
• Improves breathing

Why Choose Yoga Over the Gym?

Although gyms are more convenient and offer quick-fixes when dealing with a busy schedule, yoga ensures permanent solutions without harming the body. With gym workouts, there are bigger injury risks when dealing with free weights and muscle mass building exercises.

Yoga is also a safer alternative than going to the gym as a COVID-19 precaution. The reason being is that yoga is easy to do solo, there is less equipment to sanitize and it’s easier to social distance when practicing. So, if you’re in need of some safe exercise that benefits the entire body, try yoga!

Other Reasons to Choose Yoga Over the Gym

• Almost all gyms require a membership fee. You can do yoga at home for free.
• The social ambiance of gyms might not fit what you’re looking for. Yoga is a great, friendly environment.
• The gym is overcrowded at the times you can visit so you end up waiting around to use certain machines. There’s no waiting in yoga as everyone can practice at their own pace.

Dealing with abnormal muscle soreness or tightness? Visit AFC Urgent Care Athens, TN and we’ll get you taken care of.