I read a piece on a blog tonight while eating dinner that featured recent research that indicates that yoga is good for your brain. The entire article is linked here.
“While practicing yoga, you are focused on your breath and mindfully aware of your postures,” said study author Neha Gothe, an exercise psychologist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. “These mental exercises seem to affect the way you think and focus outside of yoga practice. The practice also reduces anxiety and stress, and that in itself can lead to better cognitive performance.”
I’ve found that I am more relaxed as a result of my yoga practice. I probably am more alert too. Being more relaxed is conducive to learning. One of the practices I’ve learned in yoga is alternate nostril breathing. I’ve found this to be an effective way to focus, relax and unwind. I’ve done it while driving. I’ve done it before class too. I find that just a few minutes of yoga in the middle of the day give me the relaxation and focus I need to stay alert and engaged after lunch.