Yoga can make you happy it releases the hormone oxytocin

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Yoga may help you be a happier person

Yoga is an age old practice that helps bring balance to the body, mind and spirit.  But can it make you happier?  Who would think twisting up like a pretzel with your eyes closed could promote sunshiny days and enlighten bliss?  But maybe it can.

The science of it all is that yoga could make you happier.  The Vagus nerve helps send messages between the central nervous system, major organs and the hormone Oxytocin.  Oxcytocin helps relax and reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels. This hormone is our built in anti-anxiety mechanism. This hormone is also responsible for stimulating many positive social interactions.  It is known as the cuddle hormone.  When yoga is practiced by using deep breathing and mind consciousness, this hormone is released.  Deep breathing warms the body, and warmth is one of the key elements that release Oxytocin.  Not only does warmth stimulates the release of the hormone, light and sound also plays a role. So, try a yoga class that uses soothing music and warm lighting. 

According to Paul Zak, director of the Center for Neuroeconomics Studies in Claremont, Calif, Massage, petting a dog, even eating food with a friend can trigger the chemical's release. So can sensor motor, or "mind-body," therapies, like breathing exercises and yoga, which help people cope with their emotions by controlling their body's physical reaction to stress and fear.
Yoga will not only help keep the body in shape and give peace of mind, it will also chemically make you feel happier.
Things you can do to release more Oxytocin and find a little more enlighten bliss:
·         Attend a yoga class
·         Try meditation and deep breathing
·         Get a massage
·         Give more hugs.  Touch stimulates the release of Oxytocin
·         Be positive
If you are looking for “mind body” therapies, try Miracles Of Massage Wellness Centerwww.themiraclesofmassage.com or Studio Dance and Fitness,www.studiodanceandfitness.com/ for starters. These studios offer a wonderful "mind body" yoga classes for all levels.
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, Atlanta Health and Happiness Examiner

Lisa Washington was raised in Atlanta, Georgia, a kidney transplant survivor, and a certified yoga and meditation practitioner. She is also a self-taught abstract artist who has sold her pieces in the Creative Spirit gallery in downtown Decatur. While currently pursuing her degree in Holistic...

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