Staying in shape is vital for our health, important for our self-image and sometimes becomes a deciding factor in our career. It is also a wonderful means to overcome our everyday stress and take our mind off the always looming problems and issues. But is there a way to exercise not only the body but also set our mind at peace and nourish our soul? Of course. We are talking yoga today.

If you think you know everything about yoga exercises think again. Of course, you’ve heard about the practice a million times before. Who doesn’t remember the crazy yoga positions Madonna showed off in her videos? But the fact is that when it comes to serious hard-boiled facts of the beneficial effects of yoga exercises not everyone is aware of them.

It’s a universal fact that yoga exercises will make you flexible. But did you know that doing yoga will make your muscles strong just like weight-lifting or other strenuous workout? Because many yoga positions will make your body use new groups of muscles, the overall strength of your body will increase.

Believe it or not, yoga is a natural painkiller. Performed on a regular basis, yoga exercises will increase your lung capacity, and, provided they are done in the open air, will fill your body with oxygen. Yoga regulates the work of the central nervous system and reduces your stress levels. And last but not least, there is scientific evidence that yoga exercises result in an increase of self-confidence. Not to mention that yoga is one of those brilliant “green” ideas that help you find your peace, serenity and harmony with planet Earth. So what are you waiting for?