Yoga

Yoga is a mind-body practice in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) with origins in ancient Indian philosophy. The various styles of yoga that people use for health purposes typically combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. There are numerous schools of yoga. Hatha yoga, the most commonly practiced in the United States and Europe, emphasizes postures (asanas) and breathing exercises (pranayama). Some of the major styles of hatha yoga include Iyengar, Ashtanga, Vini, Kundalini, and Bikram yoga. People use yoga for a variety of conditions and to achieve fitness and relaxation.

The 2002 National Health Interview Survey found that yoga is one of the top 10 CAM modalities used. Nearly 8 percent of those surveyed (more than 15.2 million adults) had ever used yoga for health purposes.

If you are interested in trying Yoga for free, contact Yoga Bear, a national 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to promoting more opportunities for wellness and healing through the practice of yoga.  Yoga Bear's Share A Mat program is intended as a way for cancer survivors to begin a yoga practice in their community. Free passes to yoga studios range from 10 weeks to six months and are meant to introduce participants to the practice of yoga. They work with over 200 studios nationwide.