By Sandra Sperber, of Burgh Healthy Hub, a yoga instructor and founder of the Life Balance Project

Yoga has been practised for thousands of years as a means to improve physical, mental, and spiritual health. As practitioners are guided through a series of asanas (yoga postures), they cultivate a deeper awareness of their bodies and their breath, which can have a calming effect on the mind, with many studies showing a positive impact on anxiety, depression, stress, and overall mental health.

• Reducing Stress and Anxiety
  One of the main benefits of yoga is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Yoga practices such as deep breathing, meditation and asanas have been found to be effective in reducing the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety, such as high blood pressure and heart rate. Additionally, practising yoga can help individuals learn to manage their stress and anxiety more effectively.
• Improving Mood
  Yoga has also been found to be effective in improving mood. Practising yoga has been shown to increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and is often associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. Yoga can help individuals become more mindful and present in the moment, which can lead to an increased sense of contentment and peace.
• Building Resilience
  Yoga can also help individuals build resilience and cope with difficult emotions. Through regular yoga practice, individuals can develop skills such as self-awareness, emotional regulation and mindfulness, which can help them navigate challenging situations with greater ease.
• Connecting with Others
  Finally, yoga classes can provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with others and build a sense of community. Many yoga classes foster a supportive and inclusive environment, which can be especially important for individuals who may feel isolated or disconnected from others.

Yoga classes can be a valuable tool for improving mental health and well-being. On a physical level, yoga also improves strength, balance and flexibility. The poses are designed to mobilise the spine and joints and improve respiration, energy and vitality.

Burgh Healthy Hub hosts Hatha & Flow yoga classes on a weekly basis. These yoga classes are inclusive and suitable for all levels, making them an accessible choice for anyone looking to practise self-care and improve their overall mental and physical health.