Some men may be under the impression that yoga is just for women, but frankly, that’s a little silly. All exercises are for everyone.

Sure, yoga may not get you those super big “guns” or those 6-pack abs you’ve always wanted. However, yoga has a ton of mental and physical health benefits that make it an excellent addition to anyone’s exercise regimen, regardless of stigma.

Here are four benefits of yoga for men:

1. Helps You Be Calm and Centered
It’s no secret that yoga can assist in meditation practices, making you more aware of your own body and calming your mind. In many studies, yoga has also been shown to be useful for treating anxiety and stress.

In fact, the Mayo Clinic lists yoga and meditation as “alternative medicine” in dealing with the stress associated with alcohol use disorder. While these tools are not as vital to recovery as support and counseling, they can help you deal with the stress and anxiety that may trigger the urge to drink.

2. Health Benefits
Yoga is great for your mental health, but it has also been shown to have positive effects on your overall health. According to the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), yoga can also help reduce chronic pain, lower your blood pressure, treat insomnia, improve energy levels, and maintain a healthy weight and metabolism.

3. Sexual Health Benefits
Yoga will make you more flexible and less likely to cramp up during sex. One study even suggests that practicing yoga helps men in every quantifiable domain of good sex. The study found improvements in everything from the quality of erections and an increased desire for partner synchronization and orgasms.

4. Stay in Shape
Not only does yoga prevent workout injuries, but it also helps you tone and strengthen all the muscles in your body. It improves athletic performance and increases flexibility, according to the AOA.

Taking care of your overall health can be a fundamental step in keeping your mental health in check. Never hesitate to seek help when you need it. For more information on help with your individual mental health needs, call Alta Loma at (866)-457-3843.