Oh yoga, we love you! There is a reason why this ancient practice has been around for thousands of years. Yoga is not only a fun physical activity, but it can really relax your mind and lift your spirit too!

Here are 5 reasons why dancers should do more yoga:

It is a good workout.

Yoga is a full body workout. As dancers, it is important to cross-train and strengthen muscles that we use less often in dance. As you flow through a yoga class you engage many different muscle groups such as your arm and back muscles. Yoga is also a great and unique way to strengthen muscles that dancers do tend to use often such as your core, hamstrings, gluts and quads. Strengthening muscles through cross training can also prevent injuries (bonus!).

It can help you sleep.

Yoga has many calming benefits. Some styles of yoga teach students different relaxation techniques. When you actively practice relaxing, your mind calms down and preps you for the rest you need. If you have trouble falling asleep at night a few mantras and deep breathing can lull you into a peaceful sleep.

Push your limits.

There are many different styles of yoga to choose from. When you find the right style(s) for your body, you can really challenge yourself! You may feel challenged by holding a pose for a long time or moving quickly through a sequence. There are also tons of balanced-based poses that can challenge you! An arm balance is a great way to switch things up from your regular balances in adagios and turning sequences.

To calm your mind.

Not only do you physically push your limits in yoga, but you also are training your mind to zoom out and appreciate all of the positive aspects in your life. You learn to act from integrity rather than impulse. Your mat is a place where you can unplug and have no judgments. Yoga is the ultimate stress reliever.

It can make you feel happier.

Studies show that yoga has a positive effect on individual’s anxiety level, stress level and overall mood. When you have a challenging yet calming workout, you can’t help but to feel happier and proud of your accomplishments! Plus, when you work out your brain releases endorphins, which make you happy.

Find time to flow!