Chronic stress can produce numerous health and emotional problems, according to Mayoclinic.com. Yoga is an easy and effective method of reducing stress and anxiety due to its relaxation and calming abilities; it is a form of alternative medicine with physical and mental exercises to achieve peace and mindfulness. Workplaces are incorporating yoga into their wellness programs for these benefits.
Why Yoga at Work?
Because people spend so many hours a day at work, often in sedentary positions, the workplace has become a great source of stress. According to Mayoclinic.com, yoga has proven effective at reducing stress, in addition to increasing fitness levels, managing chronic health conditions and aiding in weight loss. Yoga is increasing in popularity at the workplace for these reasons, as organizations struggle with increasing health care costs due to preventable health conditions.
At Your Desk
Yoga can be done without leaving your office and provides a needed break for tired muscles. Helpguide.org recommends setting aside time each day to do a few yoga poses; setting up recurring appointments in your calendar will help you stick to the commitment. Some examples of exercises you can do at your desk include seated yoga twists, neck stretches or arm stretches. By pulling your arms back and clasping them behind your back, you are opening up your chest and relieving your shoulders of pressure from being hunched over at the computer.
With a Group
If your workplace has a fitness center as part of a wellness program, chances are the company offers fitness and yoga classes. According to Helpguide.org, doing yoga with a group provides social interaction while keeping you stimulated and motivated. If you are the type of person who needs to be around others to get motivated, signing up for yoga in a class setting will be beneficial. Many workplaces offer their employees flexible schedules to fit in workouts or other personal commitments at their convenience.
Results
"Yoga at work can readily alleviate the effects of work-related stresses and even just five minutes of simple breathing, postures and centering can bring you back to an energized, refreshed state," according to My Yoga Online. Therefore, taking time out during your busy work day will make you more productive, satisfied and less likely to fall into the afternoon slump.
What You Need
One of the best things about yoga is that it doesn't require special equipment or advanced skills. Yoga exercises and stretches are for all ability levels, and you will begin to notice a difference after only a few sessions. Many workplace fitness facilities even offer yoga mats that you can borrow, although you may want to purchase your own. Yoga is traditionally done without shoes.
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