Being a yoga enthusiast and a practitioner for over 35 years, I’m always excited about new research on the benefits of yoga practice. The first bit of research recently released was great news. An analysis of the most popular complementary and alternative practices indicated that yoga was the number one effective practice utilized in the U.S. to promote well-being.
Yoga is now considered to be a powerful evidence-based practice to prevent and reverse many physical and mental diseases. Dr. Shawn Talbott, a biochemical nutritionist, stated at the December 2009 annual conference of the National Institute of the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine that the regular practice of yoga may help to prevent and lower the incidence of obesity in the United States.
As a researcher and clinician, Dr. Talbott discussed the connection between stress and the release of cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone, that when produced in excessive amounts, causes a variety of problems in the body. Some of these problems include heart disease, pre-diabetes, and obesity. Cortisol is also a powerful appetite stimulant and helps to explain one connection between stress and obesity.
During his presentation, Dr. Talbott explained that yoga practice helped to decrease stress, promoted stress hardiness and helped to bring levels of cortisol into balance. I’m seeing the increase in attendance of two particular age groups in my classes – young adults in their twenties and retirees. The young adults are interested in the stress reducing powers of yoga practice; the elders are more interested in the eclectic health benefits.
There are yoga classes all over the county catering to all needs. Yoga practice is a wise investment of time and money for all age groups. This health-promoting practice is easy and can be tailored to all levels of fitness. What great news it is to hear that research shows that the relaxation skills attained with yoga practice can help to normalize weight.

Maryann Thorhallsson, PhD, ARNP, is  a Professional Life Coach, a Nursing  Professor at BCU, and a Wellness  educator. Dr. Thorhallsson holds certifications in nutrition, yoga and QiGong and has written wellness columns since 1990.