Dr. Timothy McCall, author of Yoga As Medicine: The Yogic Prescription for Health and Healing, listed in his book 40 Ways Yoga Heals:
- Increases Flexibility
- Strengthens Muscles
- Improves Balance
- Improves Immune Function
- Improves Posture
- Improves Lung Function
- Leads to Slower and Deeper Breathing
- Discourages Mouth Breathing
- Increases Oxygenation of Tissues
- Improves Joint Health
- Nourishes Intervertebral Disks
- Improves Return of Venous Blood
- Increases Circulation of Lymph
- Improves Function of the Feet
- Improves Proprioception
- Increases Control of Bodily Functions
- Strengthens Bones
- Conditions the Cardiovascular System
- Promotes Weight Loss
- Relaxes the Nervous System
- Improves the Function of the Nervous System
- Improves Brain Function
- Activates the Left Prefrontal Cortex
- Changes Neurotransmitter Levels
- Lowers Levels of the Stress Hormone Cortisol
- Lowers Blood Sugar
- Lowers Blood Pressure
- Improves Levels of Cholesterol and Triglycerides
- Thins the Blood
- Improves Bowel Function
- Releases Unconscious Muscular Gripping
- Uses Imagery to Effect Change in the Body
- Relieves Pain
- Lowers Need for Medication
- Fosters Healing Relationships
- Improves Psychological Health
- Leads to Healthier Habits
- Fosters Spiritual Growth
- Elicits the Placebo Effect
- Encourages Involvement in Your Own Healing