For those who practice yoga regularly, the experience can be truly transformative. Its benefits include flexibility, strength, and a general feeling of calmness and well-being. Yet, even experienced yogis sometimes get tired or feel sore after an intense class. This is where kratom, an ancient herb from Southeast Asia, might offer some supportive benefits. In this article, we'll explore five reasons why including kratom in your post-yoga routine might make good sense.
But first, let's break down just what kratom is and why it has exploded in popularity in recent years.
Understanding Kratom and Its Potential
Kratom is an evergreen tropical tree scientifically classified as Mitragyna speciosa. For centuries, its applications in traditional medicine have been found across the regions of Southeast Asia. Most of the possible effects can be attributed to an exciting mixture of alkaloids in the leaves, among which are mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine.
Although the FDA hasn't approved any medical use of kratom, many users claim to experience the effects of different possible health benefits while using it. It should be mentioned that different strains and dosages will also have different potential qualities and impacts.
With that in mind, let us now discuss the top 5 reasons why kratom might be an ideal post-yoga addition for you.
1. Potential for Supporting Recovery and Relaxation
Sometimes, after a particularly invigorating yoga session, you want to relax, but your muscles have worked, and you are tired from it. Some strains of kratom, specifically within the Red Bali kratom, can help in this regard. Some users indicate that these strains can add to the sense of relaxation and tranquility, perhaps helping speed recovery from serious exercise.
One of the proposed mechanisms behind this is the presence of alkaloids like mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine. These alkaloids are believed to interact with various receptors in the body, promoting a sense of calm.
2. Probable for Boosting Energy and Motivation
We all know yoga for its calming effects. However, some of the practices can be physically demanding and will leave you feeling drained and exhausted afterwards. That's where the White Vein kratom strains can come in handy. Many users claim to feel a bit more motivated and driven after taking them, which helps them regain energy after one tough yoga session.
The alkaloids contained in such strains are also thought to interact with the body's natural energy pathways, thus heightening focus and alertness. This might just be what you need after that tiring yoga session to face the rest of your day with more vim.
3. Potential for Enhancing Focus and Concentration
A principal tenet in yoga is that of mindfulness or living in the moment with a sensibility towards clarity and focus. Interestingly, some kratom enthusiasts claim that certain strains, like the Green Vein varieties, may possess the potential to support such states of heightened awareness and mental clarity.
These strains contain alkaloids that interact with the various neurotransmitter systems in the brain, and this interference can change cognitive functions into relaxation and give the user a calm, attentive state. This can be very helpful in transferring the positive effects of your yoga practice into everyday life and keeping you centered and focused during the day.
4. Likely for Promoting Feelings of Well-Being
Yoga embodies a general sense of well-being both in the physical and mental aspects. Many users of kratom have reported that consumption of the plant may, over time, lead to a sense of contentment and equilibrium, thus enhancing moods and perceptions. Although the exact mechanisms are not known, scientists believe that the alkaloids found in kratom bind with many of those essential receptors in the brain to influence the neurotransmitter systems associated with mood regulation and emotional well-being.
5. Probability for Supporting Restful Sleep
Your body may need rest and rejuvenation after a vigorous yoga practice. Some kratom strains, more so of the Red Vein varieties, are purported to have some sedative-like properties. Some users say that these strains allow the body to fully recover and prepare for the next yoga session in a restful and restorative type of sleep.
The alkaloids in these strains are thought to interact with receptors in the brain that regulate sleep-wake cycles. They then potentially promote a sense of calm and relaxation conducive to restful slumber.
A Brief Note on Risks and Precautions
A large number of people benefit from the use of kratom; however, it is always necessary to exercise great caution and learn the possible risks and side effects. Commonly reported side effects are headache, nausea, dizziness, constipation, and dry mouth. In addition, there have been severe but rare reports of adverse events, particularly among individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
There is also potential for dependence with regular long-term use and withdrawal effects. The FDA has also continuously advised people on its consumption and recommends first consulting a healthcare professional before using any kratom product.
Final Thoughts
You might discover that, by incorporating kratom into your post-yoga practice, a whole host of advantages opens up, from supporting recovery and encouraging relaxation to boost energy levels and feelings of overall well-being. It is necessary, however, to handle this herb with care, start at low doses, and pay close attention to the response of your body. With the proper precautions and under the guidance of a health practitioner, kratom could be perfect as a supplement to enhance your overall yoga experience and allow you to reap maximal benefits from the practice.
