How Yoga Works with Jock Orton

The science of yoga is a multidisciplinary field that explores the physical, mental, and physiological effects of yoga practices on the human body and mind. It involves research from various disciplines, including neuroscience, psychology, physiology, and biomechanics, to understand how yoga impacts overall well-being.

1. Physical Aspects: Yoga comprises a wide range of physical practices, including postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and cleansing techniques (kriyas). Scientific studies have investigated the effects of yoga on flexibility, strength, balance, and cardiovascular health. Researchers have found that regular yoga practice can lead to increased muscular strength and endurance, improved flexibility, and enhanced balance.
2. Mental and Emotional Effects: One of the essential components of yoga is its focus on mindfulness and meditation. Research has shown that practicing meditation and mindfulness through yoga can have positive effects on mental health, reducing stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Yoga has also been associated with increased emotional regulation and a sense of well-being.tion, and emotional processing may be affected positively by regular yoga practice.
3. Stress Reduction: Yoga has been found to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s relaxation response. This can help reduce the effects of chronic stress and promote overall relaxation.
4. Physiological Effects: The science of yoga explores how various yoga practices can impact physiological functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and hormonal balance. Yoga has been studied as a complementary therapy for various medical conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, and chronic pain.
5. Effects on Immune System: Some studies have suggested that yoga might have beneficial effects on the immune system, potentially enhancing its functioning and improving the body’s ability to defend against infections and diseases.
6. Yoga and Aging: Research has explored how yoga can contribute to healthy aging by promoting physical activity, reducing age-related declines in flexibility and strength, and supporting cognitive function.
7. Yoga in Clinical Settings: The science of yoga investigates the potential role of yoga as a complementary therapy in clinical settings, such as healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, and mental health clinics.

The field of neuroscience in particular and its relationship with yoga has gained significant interest over the last few years, with researchers exploring how yoga practices affect the brain and overall mental well-being.

Research has shown that yoga, with all of its elements poses (asanas) breath control (pranayama), meditation, and mindfulness, have several positive effects on the brain and nervous system. Research has found that yoga increases neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganise and adapt by forming new neural connections. This phenomenon is essential for learning and memory. Neuroscience is an evolving field so there are always new and exciting studies being undertaken.