An ancient practice, did you know that Yoga classes have evolved from a form of alternative medicine 5,000 years old which combines posture, meditation and breathing exercises.
In India, yoga classes (not as we know them) are a daily part of life and in recent years it has become one of the most commonly used complementary and alternative medicines in North America.
One of yoga's main uses as a type of alternative medicine is to reduce stress, calm and balance the mind, body and spirit.
The most common form of yoga is hatha though there are various other forms that have different focuses. Hatha has become integrated as a mainly physical fitness regimen removed from it's original connections with religioun.
Though some people practise this type of yoga on their own, most individuals take part in classes that vary from once to 4 times a week (or even daily!) and can last 45 minutes to and hour and a half. This can be used to improve flexibility, coordination, digestion, sleep, and concentration, reduce stress, and lower blood pressure.
