Yoga is a mind and body practice with origins in ancient Indian philosophy. The various styles of yoga typically combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation.
There are many types of yoga, including gentle restorative yoga where you are guided through supported postures held for longer amounts of time, and more active and physical practices (and many others in between).
Some yoga classes may incorporate different props into the session, such as a mat, blocks, straps or blankets. Some classes may also use exercise balls, such as this 10-minute practice led by Chuna Rai-Nelson of the Central Arkansas VA Health Care System.
An evidence map of yoga for high-impact conditions affecting Veterans was developed by VA’s Health Services Research & Development office. Conditions with evidence of positive effect include nonspecific chronic low back pain; conditions with evidence of potentially positive effect include depressive disorders, anxiety and insomnia.
Yoga has been recommended as a first line treatment for acute and chronic low back pain in the clinical practice guidelines developed by the American College of Physicians.
To learn more about yoga and other complementary and integrative health (CIH) approaches that are offered through the VA through the Whole Health System of care, visit the Complementary and Integrative Health page.
Interested in learning more about the required CIH services and other services that may be available at your facility? Contact your local VA and ask for the Whole Health Point of Contact.
For more information about moving the body, visit Moving the Body – Whole Health (va.gov).
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