Heart disease has many causes and affects millions each year. It is the leading cause of death in the United States. Yoga has been shown to have positive benefits for prevention of heart disease and improving heart health in people diagnosed with heart disease. While yoga won’t reverse heredity, it can help lower other risk factors, such as high blood pressure, stress and other lifestyle factors.
Several medical studies have demonstrated the benefits of yoga and meditation on heart disease. One study at Yale University showed practicing yoga and meditation reduced the risk of heart disease by lowering the pulse and blood pressure of the study’s participants.
Other studies have shown similar results. A study published in the Journal of the Association of Physicians in India found heart disease was reversible with yoga and calming techniques, including meditation. This study found yoga resulted in lower cholesterol level and slower disease progression than in the control group, as well as lower levels of stress and anxiety.
The regular practice of yoga lowers blood pressure and increases blood circulation. In addition, yoga has been shown to improve blood flow and the elasticity of the arteries. This is helpful for preventing heart disease and for improving heart health for people already diagnosed with heart disease.
Stress is a well known contributor to heart disease. Although stress has come to feel like a normal part of life, it can actually be harmful to your health. The relaxation effects of yoga and meditation are known to have stress relief benefits. Lower levels of stress and anxiety reduce this risk factor for heart disease.
Regularly practicing yoga and meditation at least three times a week has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. If you have concerns about your cardiovascular health or have already had heart trouble, speak to your doctor before starting yoga or any other form of exercise.