Though yoga has been around for centuries, it seems that it has only become really popular in the US in the last ten years. And, it’s with good reason; yoga offers many benefits to the brain and body. Research completed in 2009 shows that 7.5% of Americans practice yoga – up 2% from 2008 and up 43% from 2002. In fact, most recently this country is seeing a rise in yoga practice among children – and classes for children are becoming more and more popular. Following are seven ways yoga can improve your health – at any age.

1. Increases flexibility – You’ll find some of yoga’s poses pretty difficult at first. But before you know it, you’ll be bending and stretching in ways you never thought possible, making you far more flexible than before.

2. Improves muscle strength – Over time you’ll find that your muscles are stronger and more toned, even without lifting weights. In fact, yoga is a great alternative for those who simply want to get a bit more toned and add strength, but don’t want to lift weights.

3. Increased relaxation – One of yoga’s primary functions is to increase relaxation through deep breathing and stretches. You should find that you become more relaxed and less stressed by practicing yoga regularly.

4. Decreases anxiety and depression – Regular practice of yoga has been shown to increase the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. Low levels of GABA in the brain have been associated with a higher risk of anxiety and depression – so you may be warding off this disease by practicing yoga.

5. Increases dopamine levels in the brain – Dopamine is an extremely important neuro-transmitter in the brain. Regular practice of yoga has been shown to increase and regulate dopamine levels. Some anxiety and addiction disorders, along with Parkinson’s disease, have been associated with insufficient levels of dopamine, leading researchers to believe that regular yoga practice may ward off these problems.

6. Increases endorphin release – Endorphins are our body’s natural mood enhancers, secreted by the brain. Studies have shown an increase in dopamine levels during intense yoga breath work (pranayama). Therefore, those who practice yoga breath work may report a higher general feeling of well being.

7. Increases brain activity – Yoga’s pranayama has also been shown to increase beta activity in the brain. Increased beta activity has been associated with increased brain focus and awareness. So, you may also find that you feel more able to think clearly and focus after a few months of yoga.

So, it’s easy to see why yoga has gained such popularity. This is an exercise that combines body work with relaxation and breathing techniques, making it great for body and mind. And, though many of the poses will seem quite difficult at first, yoga really is something anyone can do. Start slow, do the best you can, and you’ll soon find that even the most difficult poses are getting easier. You can improve your physical and mental well being with just a few minutes a day!

Phyllis Zerkle is a blogger and enjoys writing about medical career topics, such as how to research and choose among x-ray technician degrees, job and education tips, and more.