Happiful Magazine
Yoga: it’s the low-impact exercise that can be done pretty much anywhere, with little to no equipment, and is open to newbies and prodigies alike. And while you might initially turn to it for the physical benefits – gentle, restorative stretching and strength building – yoga has been used to support our mental health and wellbeing since its origin more than 5,000 years ago.
In fact, yoga is so effective, it has been shown to lower stress hormones in our bodies while raising feel-good chemicals endorphins and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Yoga can also help with sleep, relaxation, and feelings of overwhelm, an all-round wellbeing wonder.
And it’s also a financially accessible activity. All you need to get going is yourself, and a soft surface (if you have a yoga mat – great! But if not, a blanket works just fine). So, if you’re ready to go, and are looking for free resources to help you on your way, look no further…
Yoga with Adriene is your one-stop YouTube channel for all your yoga needs. From simple flows, to challenging sequences, and videos designed to target specific problems – like back pain, hip pain, PMS, and low mood – Adriene’s videos are a great companion for your yoga journey.
Daily Yoga is a free app available for both iOS and Android, that comes with hundreds of classes from many different teachers. You can set yourself challenges, target specific problem areas of your body – such as addressing lower back pain, or neck pain – and try something completely new with the guidance of your teacher.
Search for Daily Yoga on the App Store or Google Play Store.
If you’re looking to undertake a 30-day yoga challenge, then look no further than Arianna Elizabeth’s channel. With 30-day challenges already up and ready to go, you can dip into her 10-minute videos every day, following along with her supportive sequences.
A lot of the online yoga space is taken up by women, and while the content is often open to anyone, Man Flow Yoga is a channel specifically devoted to making yoga accessible to men. With a large range of videos for those at any level, Dean has got you covered.
Yoga is an incredibly accessible form of movement, and Jan’s channel is all about opening it up for all. With several videos on chair yoga, as well as others dedicated to improving your mood and wellbeing with gentle movement, this channel is a fantastic resource for those just starting out.
Meditation and yoga go together perfectly, and so if you’re looking to add some meditation into the mix, the Meditation Mountain podcast is the perfect place to head. From short meditations, to longer episodes that will take you into a deep relaxation, and episodes that target specific needs (such as overthinking, anxiety, or depression), you’ll soon find whatever it is you need right now.
Find episodes on whichever platform you listen to podcasts.
Ashley Freeman has an extensive collection of yoga videos available on her channel, but if you’re after something to do with a loved one or friend, then her partnered yoga is a great option. Carve out some time to connect, laugh, and move with one another.
Interested with connecting with a yoga therapist? Find a professional on the Therapy Directory
Kathryn is the Features Editor at Happiful magazine.
We’re on a mission to create a healthier, happier, more sustainable society. Our aim is to provide informative, inspiring and topical stories about mental health and wellbeing. We want to break the stigma of mental health in our society, and to shine a light on the positivity and support that should be available for everyone, no matter their situation.
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