40 Ways of Healing

There are over 40 different ways that yoga may heal....

Yoga Practice:
1. Increases Flexibility
2. Strengthens Muscles
3. Improves balance
4. Boosts immune function
5. Improves posture
6. Improves lung function
7. Encourages slow and deep breathing
8. Discourages mouth breathing
9. Increasing oxygenation of tissues
10. Improves joint health
11. Nourishes intervertebral discs
12. Improves return of venous blood
13. Increases lymph circulation
14. Improves foot mobility
15. Improves proprioception
16. Increases control of bodily functions
17. Strenghtens bones
18. Conditions the cardiovascular system
19. Promotes weight loss
20. Relaxes the nervous system
21. Soothes the nervous system
22. Elevates brain function
23. Activates the left prefrontal cortex
24. Changes neurotransmitter levels
25. Lowers levels of stress cortisols
26. Lowers blood sugars
27. Lowers blood pressure
28. Improves cholesterol levels
29. Thins the blood
30. Improves bowel function
31. Releases unconscious muscle patterning
32. Uses imagery to affect change in the body
33. Relieves pain
34. Lowers need for medication
35. Fosters healing relationships
36. Improves psychological health
37. Stimulates healthier habits
38. Fosters spiritual awareness
39. Elicits the placebo effect
40. Encourages self-healing

from Timothy McCall, MD, "Yoga as Medicine", 2007