HORMONES AND YOGA

We have previously talked about Pilates during pregnancy, and today we want to talk about the hormonal effects that yoga produces on us. To be aware of the effects of hormones on us, below is a list of some of the symptoms of "hormonal imbalance". Physical:

• Headache
• Weight gain
• skin problems
• joint pain
• Hair loss
• Increase in body and facial hair
• Swollen eyes
• Night sweats
• Tingling in hands and feet
• decreased energy (fatigue)
• Sugar/carb cravings

Psychological:

• Anxiety
• stress
• Insomnia
• Concentration problems
• depressed mood
• Humor changes
• Irritability
• Sadness
• excessive worry
• decreased libido
• Confusion

How does the practice of Yoga influence the hormonal balance?

It has been shown that the regular practice of Yoga in its traditional form decreases cortisol and adrenaline levels, the main hormones responsible for stress. This also translates into a decrease in fat in the abdomen (where more cortisol receptors are located) and above all in a significant reduction in anger, depression and anxiety, thus improving the quality of life. In addition, the regular practice of this discipline increases melatonin levels after 3 months of practice, improving the biological activity of sleep.

How much practice does an effect on hormones require?

There are different studies and many of them show that significant improvement appears after a regular period of 3 to 6 months of practice for 30-60 minutes five days a week.

What kind of Yoga is the one that allows this hormonal balance?

There is not enough research in this regard, but significant improvements have been shown with the practice of Hatha Yoga, including Pranayama and meditation. However, the practice for each person is quite selective, depending on the type (active or passive). A Yin Yoga practice would be recommended if you have a tendency to be constantly active, and a Vinyasa Yoga practice if your tendency is more sedentary. At the "TARA Psychology and Yoga" Center we offer you the possibility of practicing both Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga, taking into account both the physical, mental and emotional benefits that this practice provides, from a psychological point of view thanks to the professionals of the mental health involved in improving your comprehensive well-being. For more information: www.tarapsicología.com, face-to-face and online therapy.