Establishing a consistent practice of yoga brings a myriad of health benefits beyond increased strength and flexibility in the body and mind. In his book ‘Yoga as Medicine – The Yogic Prescription for Health and Healing’, Dr. Timothy McCall details some of the ways that yoga improves health that are evidence supported. Here they are -

40 Ways Yoga Heals, Timothy McCall, M.D.

• Increases Flexibility
• Strengthens Muscles
• Improves Balance
• Improves Immune Function
• Improves Posture
• Improves Lung Function
• Leads to Slower and Deeper Breathing
• Discourages Mouth Breathing
• Increases Oxygenation of Tissues
• Improves Joint Health
• Nourishes Intervertebral Disks
• Improves Return of Venous Blood
• Increases Circulation of Lymph
• Improves Function of the Feet
• Improves Proprioception
• Increases Control of Bodily Functions
• Strengthens Bones
• Conditions the Cardiovascular System
• Promotes Weight Loss
• Relaxes the Nervous System
• Improves the Function of the Nervous System
• Improves Brain Function
• Activates the Left Prefrontal Cortex
• Changes Neurotransmitter Levels
• Lowers Levels of the Stress Hormone Cortisol
• Lowers Blood Sugar
• Lowers Blood Pressure
• Improves Levels of Cholesterol and Triglycerides
• Thins the Blood
• Improves Bowel Function
• Releases Unconscious Muscular Gripping
• Uses Imagery to Effect Change in the Body
• Relieves Pain
• Lowers Need for Medication
• Fosters Healing Relationships
• Improves Psychological Health
• Leads to Healthier Habits
• Fosters Spiritual Growth
• Elicits the Placebo Effect
• Encourages Involvement in Your Own Healing