Yoga Research and Therapy: An Overview
By Lois Steinberg, Ph.D.

More than 5000 years of Eastern scientific traditions have shown that the practice of yoga can improve the muscular, skeletal, physiological, respiratory, cardiovascular, endocrine, and central nervous systems of the body and mind. Yoga provides the means to become physically fit in the context of a philosophy that encourages positive health practices and personality characteristics. Research studies on the beneficial effects of Iyengar Yoga include changes in self-awareness and perspective especially for those who have practiced it longer. Heart rate, blood pressure, and perceived level of exertion are higher during Iyengar Yoga standing postures than during walking. Iyengar yoga provides pain relief and improved grip strength in individuals with carpel tunnel syndrome. An Iyengar Yoga–based regimen for osteoarthritis of the hands reduced pain and tenderness in the hands and increased finger range of motion.

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