26. How yoga reduces anxiety (with evidence!)

Ok - let’s start with the doom and gloom: If you’re struggling with anxiety, it most likely won’t get better on its own. In fact, if left to it’s own devices, it’ll most likely get more challenging.The reality is that you’ll probably need to work diligently and consistently to manage, and reduce your anxiety.Right, that’s enough doom and gloom right?! Let’s look at the good stuff:When you start to meet your anxiety with movement, mindfulness and breathwork, the impact on managing and reducing your anxiety can be life-changing.This episode talks you through what is happening in your body and in your brain with anxiety, and then looks at the evidence: yep, real life science-backed evidence, of how a regular yoga practice can help.In this episode of All of Yoga, we take a deep dive into:✅ What anxiety is and how it impacts the body and brain✅ The science behind why anxiety can feel like it's taking over✅ How yoga actively reduces anxiety by calming the nervous system, balancing stress hormones, and training the brain to process stress differently✅ Simple, realistic ways to start or deepen your yoga practise to support mental wellbeingIf you’ve ever felt like anxiety was running the show, this episode is packed with insights, science-backed solutions, and practical tools to help you take back control.🧘‍♀️ Want to make yoga part of your routine?Join us at Yoga Hero in Leeds for in-studio classes, or explore online yoga options that fit your lifestyle. Start small, build gradually, and experience the benefits for yourself.💜 Book a class or explore our offerings here 💬 Love this episode?If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review – it helps others discover the podcast and start using yoga as a tool for managing anxiety.Until next time, happy practising! ✨👀 See the shownotes here---👋 work with me💛 1:1 therapeutic yogaPersonalised support for anxiety, sleep issues, stress or back pain. Take a look here 🌻 therapeutic workshops and retreatsSmall, supportive sessions focused on anxiety, deep rest or back health, blending yoga, breathwork and evidence-based education. Come join us here  🦋 vinyasa flow 200 hour yoga teacher trainingA welcoming, practical, neuroscience-informed training for people who want to teach yoga, or just learn more about it. Dive in, here