Assistant Professor,Dept. of Phy. Edu., Kalinga University,

Abstract

Yoga therapy in its present form is a new discipline, created by the marriage of traditional yoga with modern medicine. It is a specialization of yoga, which tailors yoga practices to the individual needs of people with health problems. It employs simple postural, breathing, relaxation and meditation practices, taking into account medical diagnoses and holistic factors. It emphasizes mind-body integration, extended awareness and the cultivation of a sense of harmony with the rest of life. It is applicable to many chronic conditions and can be used in conjunction with other complementary therapies. Prior experience of yoga is not required. The objective of this study is to assess the findings of selected articles regarding the therapeutic effects of yoga and to provide a comprehensive review of the benefits of regular yoga practice. Therapeutic yoga is defined as the application of yoga postures and practice to the treatment of health conditions and involves instruction in yogic practices and teachings to reduce or prevent alleviate structural, physiological, emotional and spiritual pain, suffering or limitations. Results from this study show that yogic practices increase muscular strength and body flexibility, promote and improve respiratory and cardiovascular function, promote recovery from and treatment of addiction, reduce stress, depression, and chronic pain, anxiety, improve sleep patterns, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.