No. However, it can be part of a religious/spiritual practice.

Is yoga a replacement for conventional treatment?

No. You should continue any current medication or treatment program. Yoga can help relieve the symptoms of various conditions, and it's good for your overall well-being, but it's not a treatment itself. And remember: If you do have specific health problems, make sure your health care provider knows you are planning to take up yoga.

I'm not that flexible. Can I still practice yoga?

Of course! You may want to start with a beginner's class. Yoga allows you to work at your own pace within your own limitations. No one expects you to be able to do advanced postures right away—or even ever. But the advantage is that yoga will make you stronger and more flexible.

Why does yoga have all these health benefits?

Scientists aren't exactly sure why yoga has physiological benefits, but at least some of its success can be attributed to stress reduction, the relaxation response and the "exercise" element with benefits that parallel other forms of exercise.

I have several books on yoga. Do I really need to take a class?

Yoga practitioners generally maintain that the best way to learn is in person. If you are homebound, there are countless books, websites and DVDs available. Just remember that the best and safest way to learn is with a teacher guiding you.

Yoga - HealthyWomen

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Overview
Treatment
Facts to Know
Questions to Ask
Key Q&A
Is yoga a religion?
Is yoga a replacement for conventional treatment?
I'm not that flexible. Can I still practice yoga?
Why does yoga have all these health benefits?
I have several books on yoga. Do I really need to take a class?
Organizations and Support

Questions to Ask

Review the following Questions to Ask about yoga so you're prepared to discuss this important health issue with your health care professional.

Where did you learn to teach yoga? Are you certified? Do you have references?
May I try out a class before signing up?
Do you offer different levels of yoga? What are they?
Are you on my insurance plan?
Do you have a daily yoga practice yourself?
Do you suggest a particular attire?
How often do you offer classes? Do you recommend that I attend a certain number of classes a week?
I'm pregnant. How will that affect my participating in class?
I have arthritis. Do you have experience teaching yoga to people with my condition?
Can you suggest certain books, tapes or DVDs that will augment what I'm learning here?

HealthyWomen content is for informational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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Yoga

Questions to Ask