Yoga originated in India over 5,000 years ago. Derived from the Sanskrit word yoga (to join), Yoga incorporates stretching and breathing as a form of healing.  Yoga pracitioners use a wide variety of poses and stretches in conjunction with steady breathing to create a sense of wellness in the body. This makes it equally as appealing to clients as a form of exercise as well as healing practice.

 

Yoga has been shown to be very effective in certain aspects of wellness, as shown in this video by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Since yoga bases heavily in promoting flexibility and exercises various muscle groups not often associated with typical  weightlifting or aerobic regimens, it has been shown to be effective in helping people with certain ailments such as chronic pain, stress, blood pressure, anxiety, and even depression.

 

According to the Center for Disease Control and the National Center for Biotechnology Information, more than 13 million adults practice yoga, with 16% of those users practicing yoga to treat specific health issues.

 

You can find several studios in the Manhattan, KS area that offer yoga, such as Orange Sky Yoga or, if you are a K-State student, the Kansas State University Recreation Complex offers regular sessions throughout the school year.