Quitting smoking with yoga: physical benefits

The respiratory and circulatory systems: Yogic breaths not only open the lungs and expand the diaphragm, but they also cleanse the lungs. People who are trying to quit smoking (or who have done so already) will especially benefit from this “spring cleaning” of the respiratory system. More oxygen circulates, carrying nutrients throughout the body more efficiently, which also results in better filtration and excretion of toxins.

The endocrine system: The endocrine system is the body’s regulatory system, and yoga helps to balance it, therefore maintaining homeostasis. Yoga boosts metabolism by increasing the functions of the thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands, which will result in higher energy.

The musculoskeletal system: Staying active while quitting is important, not only to strengthen the body (and the mind!), but to help thwart the weight gain that usually happens. In fact, one of the reasons many people choose not to quit is because of the risk of gaining weight. Yoga increases flexibility and strength in all muscles of the body, resulting in fewer injuries, and more endurance. It also strengthens the muscles that comprise the torso, which cause a person to stand more erect, resulting in better breathing (see how this comes full circle?).

The digestive system: Most of us wouldn’t think of smoking affecting the digestive system, but it has been shown to damage the liver and cause gallstones, peptic ulcers, and heartburn, to name a few. These conditions and several more can be alleviated by yoga. Additional benefits include increased metabolism, digestion, and cleansing of waste.

The nervous system: When the nervous system doesn’t function like it should, the rest of the body’s systems are unable to work properly. Smoking sends the nervous system into an uproar, constricting blood vessels (thus, causing high blood pressure), increasing respiratory rate, and increasing dependence to nicotine, which uses the nervous system as its main mode of travel. It initiates the stress response, which further compounds the negative effects on a person! Yoga gives a person the power to control their nervous system and relax, allowing them to better deal with nicotine cravings and impulsivity.

Quitting smoking should never be taken lightly. Consulting with your healthcare professional, as well as a professional yoga instructor, are of the utmost importance.

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