Yoga and Cardiovascular Risk

Yoga Decreases Cardiovascular Risk

New research from the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology relates yoga and cardiovascular risk.  The conclusion being that yoga decreases cardiovascular risk.  The risk reduction is similar to walking and biking.  Yoga, when compared to no exercise, showed the following significant changes:

• Body mass index reduced by 0.77 kg/m2
• Body weight decreased by 5.2 lbs
• Systolic blood pressure reduced by 5.21 mm Hg
• Diastolic blood pressure reduced by 4.9 mm Hg
• LDL cholesterol reduced by 12.14 mg/dl
• HDL cholesterol increased by 3.20 mg/dl
• Total cholesterol reduced by 18.48 mg/dl
• Heart rate decreased by 5.27 beats/min

The basis for the reduce risk is thought to be due to decreased stress, decreased inflammation, and a more relaxed state of being.  This is great news for individuals who cannot or prefer not to do traditional high impact aerobic exercise.  While there are still other benefits to achieve from aerobic exercise, yoga is a great option or addition to the routine.