Sonia Gulati is a New York City-based venture capitalist who draws upon nearly two decades of health and life science writing and research to help early-stage investments reach a value inflection point through her role as executive in residence at Kairos Ventures. Beyond her professional pursuits, Sonia Gulati enjoys hobbies such as hiking and yoga.

In addition to its physical benefits, yoga can help lower blood pressure, improve flexibility, and reduce stress. The mind-body practice, which incorporates elements of meditation and controlled breathing, has undergone several studies that have shown its capability to treat and prevent psychosomatic diseases. In regard to stress-related conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and IBS, yoga helps by increasing gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that works to calm the mind by overriding neural activity.

One study found that one hour of yoga can increase GABA levels as much as 27 percent. Meanwhile, other studies have supported notions that yoga can improve pain tolerance and support the development of the brain's healthy gray matter, which, in turn, boosts memory and overall mood.

Some of the most effective poses for relieving stress include child's pose, bridge pose, eagle pose, and extended triangle pose.