Mindfulness Yoga: How to Exercise and Relax at the Same Time

If you think that Yoga and Exercise can’t go together, think again! It’s scientifically proven that exercising with mindfulness can have amazing benefits on your physical and mental health. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about these practices, how they’re related and how to do them in the easiest way possible!

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness meditation is, essentially, awareness of one’s current state without judgment. It means focusing on one thing – like your breathing or a chant – while you sit still. To reap its benefits, mindfulness isn’t just about sitting in meditation; it’s a lifestyle with health benefits like better sleep and muscle relaxation. That’s where yoga comes in. The next time you exercise, pair it with meditation to reap even more rewards from both physical activity and mindfulness practice.

Benefits of mindfulness

It’s widely known that exercise is good for your physical health, but what about your mental health? Mindfulness exercises not only help you relax; they also improve your overall well-being. One study found that adults who practice mindfulness on a regular basis are more empathetic, aware of others’ emotions, have better coping mechanisms, are less stressed and handle challenging situations more effectively. Mindfulness is also directly linked to better sleep quality. And there are many other benefits as well!

How to practice mindfulness yoga

For those of you who are new to mindfulness, here’s a simple way to begin. Sit in a comfortable position. Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breathing. Feel it enter your body with each inhale; feel it leave your body with each exhale. Then bring your awareness to other sensations in your body—perhaps an itch on your arm or that sense of tension between you shoulders. Let them come and go without trying to fix or change them in any way.

Sample mindfulness yoga class

Mindfulness yoga is a form of exercise that helps you relax while performing a series of traditional yoga poses. When practicing mindfulness yoga, you don’t need any special equipment, just a comfortable place to sit or lie down and have some time to yourself. To start your own practice, take a moment to get centered in whatever position you choose (either sitting up or lying down), then try these easy poses.

Sample guided relaxation audio

After practicing yoga for a short while, most people experience a heightened awareness of their bodies and their surroundings. They also find it easier to concentrate on a single point of focus, like their breathing or certain muscle groups. But have you ever practiced yoga with no physical component at all? That’s mindfulness meditation – here’s how it works.