Using Yoga for a Healthy Heart

Practicing yoga has already been shown to have a positive effect on the overall health of  patients with a variety of illnesses including anxiety, depression, cancer and heart failure.  Now, a new study by Dr. Dhanunjaya Lakkireddy that was presented at the annual scientific sessions of the American College of Cardiology shows yoga can reduce episodes of irregular heart beats in patients with atrial fibrillation.  Dr. Lakkireddy was prompted to study this when he witnessed the improvement in a patient who practiced yoga regularly.   Patients in the study participated in a yoga program (which included breathing exercises, yoga postures, meditation and relaxation) three times a week and decreased their irregular heart beat episodes from 2.6 to 1.4. More importantly, they reported an improved quality of life, decreased anxiety and depression.

Here’s another example of how clearing your mind of stress can lead to a healthier body.  It’s amazing to me how our physical body is so directly impacted by our mental health.   Yoga is just one way to work on improving your mental health.  Find what works for you and stick with it…your body will appreciate i