Why yoga is the best exercise for a healthy posture

Fed up with slouching over your computer and feeling aches and pains in your back when you walk?

It might be worth signing up for a yoga class!

Studies have shown that yoga can improve your flexibility and balance, giving your posture a welcome boost.

Let’s look at some of the ways yoga can help your posture and how to get started if you want to give it a try.

How yoga can improve your posture

Yoga poses engage and strengthen your core muscles, the muscles that surround your hips and spine. A strong core provides more spinal support, making it easier to maintain a healthy posture
These poses encourage better body awareness, meaning you become more mindful of your posture
It includes several balancing poses that encourage stability. This makes it easier to keep your balance and ensure your weight is balanced on both sides of your body, helping with your posture
Yoga encourages relaxation and reduces stress levels. Stress and anxiety are key factors when it comes to back pain and bad posture
It encourages spinal strength and flexibility, making it easier to keep your spine aligned and stay in the correct posture

How to get started with yoga

What we love most about yoga is that everyone can do it regardless of age and ability. It’s even perfectly safe to do in pregnancy.

(Of course, if you have medical issues, we recommend speaking with your doctor before starting any type of exercise plan.)

Here are some easy ways to get started with yoga to improve your posture.

While it’s great to check out a class at your gym or local center, there are also lots of fantastic resources online. You can download an app to your phone that reminds you when to carry out stretches or access a playlist on YouTube
Make sure you wear comfortable clothes that don’t restrict your movement – a pair of leggings or shorts and a t-shirt are great. It’s always best to be barefoot when taking part in yoga, as this provides better grip
The great thing about yoga is that you don’t need a lot of specialist equipment, just plenty of space to do your stretches. However, if you do go to a class in a gym or yoga studio, we recommend investing in a yoga mat
Start slowly. Get used to the basic poses and move to the more advanced stretches when you feel more confident
Listen to your body. Don’t push yourself, and if you start to feel pain when carrying out a pose, stop
Don’t forget to do some cool-down stretches after to reduce muscle soreness and prevent injury. Our back massager and stretcher is great for boosting circulation after your workout

Do you do yoga? Which poses are your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!