Sometimes working out can feel like just one more thing on our long list of to-dos that will once again go unchecked. We know it can be hard to make time for exercise. Occasionally, it’s okay to take a rest from working out, and it’s always good to forgive yourself when you miss a workout. However, we believe it is completely possible – and important – to practice yoga, even when you’re short on time.
Benefits of Physical Activity – Even in Short Bursts
The recommended amount of physical activity in a week is 150 minutes, which is roughly 21 minutes a day. This is absolutely doable, even when we’re busy. In just 21 minutes, we can see remarkable differences in our health. This makes short workouts completely worth your time.
By taking a few minutes a day for physical activity (something even as little as a brisk walk or equivalent), you are taking steps toward extending your life. It’ll lower your chances of diseases and increase brain activity, giving you more focus and energy. Your health will benefit from even a few minutes of physical activity, so whatever you enjoy most that gets you moving, do it. This could be a few minutes of yoga, a walk, a jog, or a HIIT workout.
Is 15, 20, 30 Minutes of Yoga a Day Enough?
An ideal yoga practice is 60 minutes, but sometimes this isn’t possible and can even seem daunting. When you don’t have enough time for a full yoga practice, you may be wondering if it’s even worth it to do 15 or 30 minutes. Yes, it is absolutely enough to do a few minutes of yoga a day. A short yoga practice has several benefits.
It Helps You Form Habits
Shorter yoga practices can help you settle into a routine and remind you why it’s beneficial to step on the mat every day. As a 2012 study shows, small, consistent behaviors are more likely to turn into habits because we can fit them into a busy schedule. That’s why we now offer 30-minute yoga sessions here at Health Yoga Life. These short practices require little of your time but can have major benefits to your physical and mental wellbeing. If you can’t make it live to the 30-minute sessions, you can sign up for a membership and receive flex viewing, which will allow you to watch the classes you missed at a time that is convenient for you. Don’t skip another yoga practice; even 30 minutes of yoga can help you form healthy habits that you’ll want to carry throughout the rest of your life.
It Enhances Physical Health
Even a short yoga practice offers several physical health benefits. You can still experience increased flexibility and strength, just as you would from a 60-minute session. The key is consistency. Regularly stepping on the mat can see remarkable improvements to your physical health. Plus, a shorter yoga practice (such as our 30-minute classes) could be the addition to your regular workout that you need for all-around fitness.
It Improves Mental Wellbeing
If for no other reason than the mental health benefits, you should make time for yoga. A short yoga session can be therapeutic, which can reduce stress and improve sleep. It can also enhance your concentration and give you a boost of energy; this makes shorter practices a great way to step away from the desk and refresh your mind in the middle of the workday. When you’re overwhelmed, exhausted, or stressed, step onto the mat and breathe.
Short Yoga Practices for the Win
The next time you have a time-sensitive schedule, remember to plan for a yoga practice – of any length. You can benefit from a short yoga practice just as much as a 60-minute session. The important thing to do is consistently step on the mat – whether that’s every day or every other day. Whether you just have 15, 20, or 30 minutes, make time for yoga – your body, mind, and spirit will thank you. Sign up for our 30-minute virtual yoga classes today – joining Stephen on Fridays at 12:30 PM or Ashley on Tuesdays at 4:30 PM! Or join Liz for 30 minutes of high-intensity strength and cardio, followed by a 30 minute Vinyasa flow, led by Robyn, to fire up the core and cool you down on Mondays at 7:00 AM!