Frontiers in Alternative & Traditional Medicine

Yoga as an Alternative Therapy

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According to this survey, Yoga was the 5th most commonly used CAM therapy (2.8%) in the United States during 2016. Yoga is considered a mind-body intervention that is used to reduce the health effects of generalized stress.

Yoga is believed to calm the nervous system and balance the body, mind, and spirit

Scientists do not know exactly how yoga works for good health. Some say it reduces stress like other mind-body therapies, and others believe that yoga causes the release of endorphins, natural painkillers and "feel good" chemicals in the brain. Studies show yoga can lower heart rate and blood pressure, increase muscle relaxation, and increase breathing capacity.

Yoga improves fitness, lowers blood pressure, promotes relaxation and self-confidence, and reduces stress and anxiety. People who practice yoga tend to have good coordination, posture, flexibility, range of motion, concentration, sleep habits, and digestion. Yoga is a complementary therapy that has been used with conventional medicine to help treat a wide range of health problems, but it does not cure any disease.