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Benefits of yoga

What a regular practice may do for you

Yoga combines movement, breath and attention. Research is still growing, but studies suggest a regular practice may support your body and mind in several ways. Here is what is known, in plain words.

Explore the benefits
01

A calmer mind

Slow breathing and stillness may help ease everyday stress, and some people find they sleep better.

  • Studies suggest yoga may help with stress and may improve sleep for some people.
  • Breathing practices (pranayama) slow the breath, which many people find calming.

Source: NCCIH, Yoga: What You Need To Know

02

Strength and flexibility

Postures build strength, balance and range of movement, at your own pace.

  • Holding and moving between postures works muscles throughout the body.
  • Balance postures may help with steadiness, including for older adults.

Source: NCCIH, Yoga: What You Need To Know

03

Heart and breath

Gentle, regular practice supports an active lifestyle, and breathing practices train the breath.

  • Yoga is a form of physical activity, and regular activity supports heart health.
  • Talk to your doctor first if you have a heart condition or high blood pressure.

Source: NCCIH, Yoga: What You Need To Know

04

Back and joint comfort

For some people with ongoing low-back pain, yoga may help with pain and movement.

  • Research suggests yoga may help some people with chronic low-back pain.
  • Choose a gentle class and tell your teacher about any pain or injury.

Source: NCCIH, Yoga: What You Need To Know

05

Focus and attention

Concentration and meditation practices train attention, on the mat and off it.

  • Meditation, a part of many yoga traditions, practises bringing attention back to one thing.
06

Belonging

Practising with others, in a class, a park or online, connects you with a community.

  • Yoga is practised together in many cultures, and community is part of the practice for many people.

Source: United Nations, International Day of Yoga

Please note: This page is general information, not medical advice. Yoga is generally safe for healthy people when practised with a qualified teacher, but some postures are not suitable for everyone. Talk to a health professional before you start, especially if you are pregnant, have a health condition or an injury.