As I was returning from teaching a yoga class this week I started wondering why we feel very different after practicing yoga than we do after doing an aerobics or HIIT class. Both make you feel great, right?
After an exercise class I feel energised, positive and clear headed. But after a yoga class I feel peaceful, energised and beautifully uplifted like I’m floating on a cloud. We call that ‘yoga bliss’; feeling loved up and connected after practicing yoga.
After doing some research I learned that many of the hormones produced as a result of exercise and practicing are the same; endorphins, serotonin and dopamine. Most of us have heard of these as the ‘feel good/ happy hormones’. However, research conducted in 2013 found that yoga also induced the production of the hormone oxytocin, in addition to the feel good hormones.
Oxytocin is produced during sex, orgasm, childbirth and breastfeeding; it is the bonding, love and connection hormone. Hence feeling loved up and like you’re floating on a cloud – ‘yoga bliss’. Mystery resolved – yoga bliss is real and is based in our hormone levels. If you want some loving feelings in your life, you know what to do!
Written by Gemma Ford
Instagram: @gemmajaneford
Twitter: @fitwimbledon
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About The Author
Gemma Ford
Gemma is a qualified yoga teacher and intuitive life coach. After receiving her training in India and Los Angeles she settled in South West London where she teaches yoga via her YouTube channel as well as coaching locally and internationally. Gemma loves to teach and support her clients to reach their highest potential in health, wealth and happiness.