If you’ve ever wanted to try yoga, it’s time to get out the mat.

Whether you exercise regularly or are just starting out, yoga may be the exercise for you. This mind-body exercise includes physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation.

Say “om” for better health

By practicing yoga, you can:

Improve flexibility and strength.

Yoga stretches your muscles. Standing poses work the muscles in the lower body, and inversions, like downward dog and arm balances, strengthen the upper body.

Stand up straighter.

Many poses in yoga can strengthen the core muscles in your stomach and back. A strong core leads to better posture, which can help prevent back and neck problems.

Ease stress and anxiety levels.

Yoga involves breathing exercises that force you to pay attention to your breath. Deep breathing can help you relax almost instantly, which can help relieve stress and anxiety.

Reduce low back pain. 

Practicing yoga for several months may ease chronic low back pain, help you function better, and enrich your quality of life.

Improve sleep.

Yoga has been shown to be helpful for sleep in studies of older adults, people with arthritis, pregnant women, and other groups.*