Yoga

Yoga combines physical postures, breathing practices and meditation. Modern research treats it as a mind-body exercise form rather than a single standardised intervention.

What published research reports

The NIH's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that research supports yoga for relieving low-back pain and neck pain, improving sleep and reducing stress, with some evidence for balance, anxiety and quality of life in various groups. It reports yoga is generally safe for healthy people when taught properly, with injuries most often involving overstretching or challenging poses attempted too early, and advises people with health conditions and pregnant women to speak with their provider and instructor about modifications.

References

• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Yoga: Effectiveness and Safety. nccih.nih.gov