5 Mental Health Benefits of Doing 30 Minutes of Yoga

Yoga is not just a physical exercise—it’s a powerful practice that nurtures the mind, body, and soul. Even just **30 minutes of yoga daily** can have profound effects on mental health. Here are five key benefits: *1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety* Yoga incorporates **deep breathing (pranayama), mindfulness, and gentle movements**, which activate the **parasympathetic nervous system**—the body’s relaxation response. This helps lower **cortisol (stress hormone)** levels, reducing feelings of anxiety and tension. Studies show that regular yoga practice can significantly decrease symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and chronic stress. *2. Improves Mood and Fights Depression* Yoga stimulates the production of **serotonin and GABA**, neurotransmitters linked to happiness and relaxation. Poses like **backbends (e.g., Camel Pose) and inversions (e.g., Legs-Up-the-Wall)** boost circulation and energy flow, helping alleviate depressive symptoms. Research suggests t...