Yoga vs Stretching — What’s the Difference?
Yoga is gaining popularity, with more and more yoga studios opening up left and right. Many people think that yoga is just a form of glorified stretching. Is there any difference between yoga and stretching? Or is yoga just stretching with fancy (and quite confusing) Sanskrit terms mixed in with it?
Yoga vs Stretching: What’s the Difference?
While they have similarities, stretching and yoga are two different things. We are here to set things straight about these two methodologies and how they can benefit you.
Their Similarities
The idea that the two are the same stems from the fact that yoga and athletic stretching have a lot of postures and positions that are similar. However, that does not make stretching a subcategory of yoga nor vice versa. Both yoga and stretching will require concentration, flexibility, and strength. Both of these will allow a person to achieve good overall health because they will keep the body active and will increase blood flow and mindfulness.
The Differences
Yoga and stretching have overlaps, but there are also key differences. By looking at the contrast of the two, you will be better able to decide which will be more beneficial for your needs. Yoga focuses on the connection between mind and body. You will go into various styles of poses that will allow you to relax and achieve mindfulness as you go through the poses. On the other hand, stretching will allow your body to become flexible and limber. You will be able to move with more ease and be at less risk for injury if you do regular stretching exercises. If you work out lift weights and cardio exercises, stretching before you begin will ensure that your body will be ready for the workout.
Why Stretching Feels So Great
The primary reason why you feel so good after stretching is because of all the endorphins that it releases into your bloodstream. The act of stretching out your muscles will activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which will, in turn, promote mindfulness and overall relaxation of the whole body.
Why You Should Stretch Everyday
Stretching does not require any special equipment and tools. That being said, you may be able to do stretching exercises every day, in the comfort of your own home. If you are an athlete, doing daily stretching will help you become an all-around better athlete.
What if you are not an athlete? Stretching will still offer a lot of health benefits that will lower stress levels, condition your muscles to be more flexible and strong as well as help your body achieve relaxation.
Conclusion
Daily stretching sessions should be part of your health routine. Because of all the health benefits that come with stretching, you will be able to see a great difference in your overall physical and mental well-being. However, if you are at a loss for where to begin, you can join a stretching class. The trainers will be more than happy to help you and advise you about which stretches can help you the most.
If you are in search of stretching places, come and visit Stretch Studios! We offer Australia’s First One-on-One Assisted Stretching Concept and want to help you achieve overall health through assisted stretching. Come in for a session and feel the difference today!