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Evidence-Based Yoga, Mindfulness, and Heart Health
I recently joined Matthew Huey on the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast to talk about a topic close to my heart: how yoga, mindfulness, and heart health come together in a meaningful, practical way.
Matthew and Andrew McGonigle, through their Enlightened Yoga Collective, are doing important work in bringing a more evidence-informed approach to yoga teaching. As someone who has practiced yoga for nearly 30 years, and has benefited from the power of a safe and aligned practice, I value this shift toward integrating science with lived experience.
Our conversation is an invitation to approach yoga with both curiosity and discernment—to stay open, while also staying anchored. I hope you enjoy it! You can listen to the podcast through the Spotify link below, or on your preferred podcast platform.
The Science of Breath: A Physician Explains Pranayama
Breathing is something we do every minute of every day, mostly without giving it a second thought. However, as a physician and a yoga teacher, I've come to appreciate the profound impact that conscious breathing, or pranayama, can have on our physical and mental well-being. In this article, I delve into the science behind pranayama and explain how it can be a powerful tool for connecting the mind and body.
Yoga and Your Heart Health
Decades of research has established beyond a doubt that for most people, exercise can help prevent heart disease. But what about yoga? Overall, the physical benefits of yoga appear very similar to what we see with exercise.
How does yoga fit into your lifestyle if you already have heart issues? First, check with your doctor. Heart disease can include so many different conditions, from very minor to life threatening. It’s impossible to generalize. Some forms of yoga may be safer than others for people with heart conditions.