Since yoga gained popularity in the West, the ancient practice has been associated with not only deep relaxation but also as a supportive therapy for a range of health conditions. It's also been found to be beneficial as part of a smoking cessation program. The focus on self -- connecting the mind, body and spirit -- provides an ideal way to handle the intense challenge of giving up smoking. If stopping smoking is on your mind, you may want to consider yoga as a way to overcome the addiction.
Understanding Yoga
Since its beginnings thousands of years ago, yoga has been offering practitioners physical, mental and spiritual benefits. The yoga poses or postures can improve flexibility and strengthen muscles. The emphasis on meditation, breathing and self-reflection enhance mental wellness, providing clarity and relaxation. In fact, the practice originally had little to do with the postures we associate with yoga today. Spiritual development is one of -- if not the central -- goal of yoga.
How Yoga Helps Smokers
The focus on mind, body and spirit can be helpful to smokers in a variety of ways. The breathing techniques, meditation and relaxation involved in yoga all support stress management, which is key when facing cravings for a smoke break. In addition, yoga can also be helpful in keeping weight under control. This is of particular interest if you're a smoker, as giving up the habit can lead to weight gain. Yoga also offers the unique combination of both aerobic activity and meditation, which may be especially helpful if you're a woman trying to give up smoking, according to research published in April 2010 in "BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine."
Qualities of Yoga Practitioners
Survey results on the characteristics of yoga practitioners reveal that they are less likely to be smokers than those that don't practice, according to findings published in October 2008 in the "Journal of General Internal Medicine." In addition, the research also found that yoga users were less likely to have high blood pressure or chronic pulmonary obstructive disease. Smoking is the leading cause of COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Effective Programs
While yoga on its own provides numerous benefits as you start your nonsmoking journey, it may be helpful to incorporate additional support as well. The 2010 research on yoga as a complementary therapy for smoking cessation included a cognitive therapy program. Consider looking into yoga classes that are specifically geared towards smokers. Your physician, local hospital or health insurance company may be able to help you find such smoking cessation programs in your area.
References
- "BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine"; Yoga as a Complementary Treatment for Smoking Cessation: Rationale, Study Design and Participant Characteristics of the Quitting-in-Balance Study; BC Bock, et al.; April 2010
- "Journal of General Internal Medicine"; Characteristics of Yoga Users: Results of a National Survey; GS Birdee, et al.; October 2008
