Is yoga as healthy for your heart as cycling?

According to an analysis of 37 health studies, a Harvard University researcher has found that practicing yoga regularly is as beneficial to your heart health as cycling and walking.  

They aren't entirely sure why, as you don't get puffed in the same way that you do doing more traditional cardiovascular exercise. But research suggests it is true and believe it is due to the combination of exercise and stress reduction. 

According to the research, yoga leads to weight loss, lowers cholesterol and cuts blood pressure. And it even helps you quit smoking. 

The research involved 2,700 people and also found that regular yoga practice reduced blood pressure 3x more effectively then taking pills. 

"Yoga may provide the same benefits in risk factor reduction as traditional physical activity such as cycling or brisk walking". Says researcher Myriam Hunink of Erasmus University and Harvard University.

Maureen Talbot of the British Heart Foundation said "any physical activity that can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease should be encouraged, and the benefits of yoga on emotional health are well established".

Brilliant, get yourself to a class or start your home practice today!

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