Yoga is a well-known exercise plan that has proven to be beneficial for both physical and mental health. Various research studies have shown that it helps reduce stress, anxiety and insomnia.
The best part is that it can also be practiced by women of all ages. Whether you are suffering from PMS, pregnancy or menopause, yoga can help you overcome these health challenges with ease.
Pre-Conception
Yoga can be a very helpful tool for woman who are trying to conceive (TTC). In fact, it has been shown to decrease anxiety and depression in women undergoing fertility treatment.
The breathing exercises in yoga also lower the stress-producing hormone cortisol, which is known to have an impact on a woman’s fertility.
Aside from helping with physical health, yoga can help reduce ovary dysfunction, which is one of the leading causes of infertility among women.
Practicing yoga is also a great way to improve your blood circulation, which is essential for a healthy pregnancy. It flushes out all toxins and ensures that oxygen-rich blood is flowing to the reproductive organs for proper development.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an important stage in a woman’s life and she should consider yoga to help her with the physical and emotional challenges that come with it. It’s a safe and easy-to-modify activity that can be beneficial for women across all trimesters.
A study found that pregnant women who practiced yoga experienced a decreased level of self-reported distress and increased perceived skills to assist in labour and birth. A mixed methods study recruited 30 women under 24 years who were offered twice a week, one-hour voluntary prenatal yoga sessions throughout their pregnancy.
A medical file audit gathered baseline demographics; attendance record and pre- and post-session surveys were administered. A brief individual interview was also conducted with each study participant.
Postnatal
The body undergoes huge changes during pregnancy and giving birth, causing a lot of stress on all parts. Postnatal yoga is a great way to gradually soothe these strains and heal the mother’s body.
Your posture will be affected after pregnancy, especially if you breastfeed and carry your baby around. But a regular yoga practice can help strengthen your core, straighten your back and give you back your natural poise.
Your body will be softer than before pregnancy, so you might need to start with a gentle yoga routine and then build up to more advanced poses as you get fitter and stronger. It’s best to speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor to see what’s safe for you and your baby.
Menopause
Menopause is a natural part of aging, but some women go through it earlier due to surgery or damage to their ovaries (known as premature menopause). A drop in oestrogen levels leads to a range of symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness.
Thankfully, a recent study shows that yoga may actually improve these symptoms. Among other benefits, yoga is known to help balance the body’s endocrine system and increase confidence.
Another thing that yoga can do is improve your mental health, which is a common issue for women going through the transition to menopause. Research suggests that yoga can help reduce stress, irritability, anxiety and depression caused by hormone changes during menopause.
Women’s Health
Yoga, as a form of exercise, is a great way to improve women’s health. It improves physical strength, mental clarity, and flexibility.
As a therapist, you can use the latest research on women’s health to guide your female clients to more physically active lifestyles that will improve their quality of life and well-being.
You can help your female clients manage stress and anxiety by teaching them how to incorporate yoga into their daily lives. Many studies have shown that yogic practices can relieve anxiety and depression.
In addition, yoga is also beneficial for women during menopause. Regular practice can help balance hormones, reduce cholesterol, and maintain a healthy digestive system.