We love yoga as a way to tone up, decrease stress and improve your flexibility. But the practice has stretched in sooo many ways, there’s a reason for every girl out there to give it a shot. Keep reading to find out why you just might heart this ancient practice.
 
It Increases Your Body Confidence
“Yoga makes girls feel good about their bodies,” says yoga instructor Elisabeth Halfpapp, co-host of Exhale: Core Fusion Yoga--Energy Flow. You’ll improve your posture, which is proven to up your confidence, too. Plus, yoga is a great way to see just how strong you can be, whether through holding a pose for longer than you did the week before or by stretching out in a totally new way. Fierce!
 
It’s Super Fun
With all the emphasis on stress and breathing, it may seem like yoga is ho-hum. So not true! Bring a bud along or try out DVDs in your living room. With cool music in the background (like rock ‘n’ roll yoga, which is available at some studios) or crazy mash-ups (we’re still hooked on Mobile Yoga, aka poses on wheels). We bet you’ll be smilin’ within the first few minutes of hitting the mat—or the road.
 
It Gives You a Major Sense of Accomplishment
Wanna feel proud? Sweat your way through an hour-long hot yoga session or super-challenging Ashtanga class. Some girls like the om-worthy feeling of meditation and easy postures but if you want a bit of butt-kicking, ask your local studio about power classes. When you’re done, you’ll feel absolutely amazing. Promise!