Yoga for Health: A New e-Book

A growing number of Americans are rolling out their mats and engaging in the ancient practice of yoga. Yoga has spiritual origins. But in recent years, it has become a popular way to improve physical health and mental well-being.

Have you considered trying yoga? How can you know if it’s right for you? To help you find answers, NIH has created a new 40-page e-book called “Yoga for Health.” This free e-book gives an overview of what the science says about yoga and its impacts on health. It also offers tips on how to practice yoga safely.

Research suggests that yoga may help some people manage certain symptoms of disease. Several studies have looked at yoga and cancer, especially in women who have breast cancer. The studies found evidence that yoga can help to improve quality of life and reduce fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

Other studies have found that yoga may have health benefits for people who have multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, asthma, and more.

When it’s done under the guidance of a qualified instructor, yoga is generally considered to be a safe form of physical activity for healthy people. But as with any type of physical activity, it is possible to get hurt. The e-book includes tips for reducing your risk of injury.

Learn more about yoga and health.