There is a huge amount of research (and absolute proof) out there that Yoga can do wonders for us in so many ways. Here are just some of benefits a regular yoga practice can bring to your life:

Increases flexibility
Reduces Stress
Increases muscle strength and tone
Improves respiration, energy and vitality
Maintains a balanced metabolism
Aids weight reduction
Improves cardio and circulatory health
Improves athletic performance
Improves mental well-being
Can provide protection from injury

According to Natalie Nevins, DO, a board-certified osteopathic family physician and certified Kundalini Yoga instructor in Hollywood, California. “Regular yoga practice creates mental clarity and calmness; increases body awareness; relieves chronic stress patterns; relaxes the mind; centers attention; and sharpens concentration."

Because there are so many different kinds of yoga practices, it is possible for anyone to start. “Whether you’re a couch potato or a professional athlete, size and fitness levels do not matter because there are modifications for every yoga pose and beginner classes in every style,” says Dr. Nevins. “The idea is to explore your limits, not strive for some pretzel-like perfection.”

Yoga can be practiced to enhance overall health, to improve balance, to heal and prevent injuries, to strengthen muscles and to open the body for meditation. “It is a great way to get in tune with your body and your inner self,” says Dr. Nevins. Yoga's increasing popularity is proof that many people value an exercise system that engages the mind, body and spirit in equal measure. If you've never done yoga before, give it a try and see what it can do for you.

“I have always done a huge amount of sport, marathon running and long distance triathlon, so Yoga is not at the top of my list of things to do. I have never enjoyed yoga as I find it very frustrating and my muscles are so tight I find it too hard to get into the most basic positions and this frustrates me hugely, despite knowing that it would probably be a huge benefit to me – I’d rather be out running or cycling! However every time I do yoga I always feel refreshed, energised and very loose in my muscles. When Kate started doing yoga I decided I had to attend. I love it. She has a very calming voice, she keeps each week varied so we don’t get bored doing the same thing and she does not do each exercise hundreds of times over. Yoga with Kate is now a very important part of my weekly regime and I look forward to it as it calms me down, stretches my muscles and at the same time energises me. She makes me feel confident and I really enjoy doing yoga with Kate.”

Leila Hudson