On TV are a large number of commercials telling us about the latest fitness products to help us with weight loss, better abs or tone our muscles, it is rare that we hear about yoga, an exercise that has all those benefits and more.

Many think this is just a method to maintain flexibility, something bodybuilding wouldn’t do- the benefits of yoga are wide and go beyond just physical and physiological.

People think that the single biggest advantage of yoga is flexibility. If you’ve ever watched a yoga class, or even looked at some yoga clothing sites, you may be awed by the folding and twisting of yoga practitioners. Yoga can help increase the range of motion in your hamstrings, back shoulder and hips.

Yoga positions, some of which are held in long periods of time, also helps build strength and muscle tone. You will also have improved balance as you learn to achieve poses.

Increased flexibility and strength also help in prevention of some types of pain. Imagine how good it would feel when you stretch after a long drive. Yoga extends this to much of your body and can help with back pains, shoulder pain and even carpal tunnel pain, among others.

During yoga you also focus extensively on breathing. Learning to breathe slower and deeper as you move through poses can benefit your entire body. Your better breathing technique may initially cause some light-headedness during yoga as your blood carries a better supply of oxygen, so be prepared. This will happen during your first few attempts but don’t worry, it will pass. Controlled breathing can also help you in other ways as it can be used for pain management and stress reduction.

Exercising can give both mental and physical which come from endorphins, concentration and calmness is where the benefits of yoga comes from. Concentration on breathing and body positioning is very important in yoga, this is also a good tool for stress reduction and to calm your thoughts. Yoga in the evening can help you prepare your mind and body for sleep due to it’s relaxing nature.

Enrolling in a class, buying a video or watching a show is just as easy as beginning to practice yoga. You’ll also need a carpeted area or a yoga mat and loose or flexible clothing. Whether in a class or alone, pay attention to your body. Use a modification of a pose if you feel pain while attempting it or you can try again once you’ve gained the strength and flexibility for it. If you continue to do yoga, the poses will become easier and you might find that yoga is one of the best “you” times you can have.

About the author: Cheryl Morey writes as a hobby and maintains websites for St. Louis featuring Spa St Louis.