There are countless ways to stay active and burn calories, but yoga continues to be a favorite for many. This centuries-old practice offers a unique combination of physical and mental benefits, including improved balance, flexibility, strength, reduced stress, and even weight loss. For many, yoga’s ability to promote a sense of calm and grounding is what keeps them coming back.
Yoga’s popularity has surged in recent years, with about one in six adults practicing it regularly. According to researchers Nazik Elgaddal and Julie Weeks in a study for the National Center for Health Statistics, yoga has experienced "the largest increases" among wellness practices, reflecting its growing appeal in modern lifestyles.
Tried Yoga to Calm Anxiety and Reduce Back Pain
Many people turn to yoga for a variety of reasons, but for Krimitsos, it was about finding relief from both physical pain and mental stress.
“My body felt constantly tight, and I was struggling with significant back pain,” she shares. “On top of that, I was going through an incredibly stressful season in my life. My mind was constantly racing, weighed down by responsibilities and anxieties. I decided to commit to a month of yoga, hoping it would not only help my body feel more stretched and strong but also bring some relief from the relentless thoughts in my head.”
Staying Committed Was Hard at First
Like starting any new routine, staying dedicated to yoga was challenging at first.
"The biggest challenge at first was keeping my commitment to do it," Krimitsos admits. "But after only one week, I began feeling so good that I wanted to show up to my mat every day."
More Joyful and Grateful
One of the most significant transformations Krimitsos experienced was in her mindset. Yoga helped her slow down, improve her mood, and shift her perspective.
“Practicing yoga every day forced me to slow down,” she explains. “It made me stay present—in the stretch, in my breath. Each session became a meditative experience for me.”
She continues, “Like meditation, yoga helped me detach from my thoughts and let go of their weight, allowing me to truly be in the moment and find peace. I feel so much lighter—more joyful and grateful every single day!”
A Burst of Energy
Yoga is renowned for boosting energy levels and enhancing alertness, a benefit supported by Johns Hopkins—and Krimitsos experienced it firsthand.
“Within just a few days, my body felt so much more stretched out and loose,” she shares. “At the same time, I felt strong and grounded. I could also feel my energy levels rise and stay consistent throughout the day.”
Thinking About Practicing Yoga?
While yoga is known for its challenging poses, it’s also highly accessible, with beginner-friendly classes tailored to all fitness levels. With proper guidance, yoga can be a rewarding and enjoyable practice for anyone, regardless of age or ability.
“I would absolutely recommend a 30-day yoga challenge to everyone,” says Krimitsos. She shares her top tips for starting your own month-long challenge:
- Stick to your commitment no matter what.
- Allow yourself to slow down. “We’re so used to rushing through life that slowing down can feel counterproductive,” she explains.
- Use it as a gateway to mindfulness. “Let yoga open your heart to incorporating more meditation and mindfulness into your daily life.”
Additional tips include focusing on your breathing, finding a supportive class or instructor, listening to your body, and mastering basic poses before moving on to more advanced ones. With the right approach, a yoga challenge can be a transformative experience.