The Benefits of Yoga, esp. for INTJs

I practiced yoga regularly for a few years, and it was one of the most clear periods in my adult life.

Recently, I started practicing yoga again, and while I only do a half an hour every day and meditation for 10 minutes daily I am getting just back into it, I am already seeing a change.  I feel more relaxed mentally and more energy physically.  INTJs can benefit a great deal from yoga as we are always thinking and analyzing, and doing yoga and meditation gives us a chance to clear our head once in a while.  Clearing your head is important because it allows your brain to de-stress and think afresh.

Many studies have shown that meditation and yoga helps the memory, reduces stress and gives you more energy.  A Harvard study even found that yoga helps anxiety and depression.  You don't have to convert to a religion to do it.  You just need to become in tuned with your body, your breath and nature or your other surroundings.

Below are links on a few more reputable studies as I know we INTJs like scientific studies/proof.

http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletters/Harvard_Mental_Health_Letter/2009/April/Yoga-for-anxiety-and-depression

http://psychcentral.com/news/2010/01/12/scientific-basis-for-yoga-benefits/10693.html

http://health.usnews.com/health-news/diet-fitness/fitness/articles/2010/09/24/benefits-of-yoga-how-different-types-affect-health

http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2011/meditation-0505.html

http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200304/the-benefits-meditation

http://nccam.nih.gov/health/meditation/overview.htm


There are many other studies out there, but I also believe in trying things oneself.  See it as an experiment.  Practice yoga or mediation for a short period once a day for a month, and see how you feel.  You don't need to even go to a yoga studio unless you like the experience of exercising with others. A true INTJ, I like to exercise solo.  I only go to studios if a friend is with me as it is also a bonding experience.  Usually, I put on a Baron Baptiste or Rodney Yee video or even a YouTube video from a certified yoga instructor, and I do yoga at home or even in my hotel room when I travel.