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Yoga asana (general)
आसन
A listing is not a recommendation.
Origin: India (practised worldwide) · Tradition: Yoga · Movement
What it is
Mind–body movement that combines poses, breathing, and attention. Schools vary widely, from gentle hatha to strong power yoga.
A short introduction (not a treatment instruction)
- Beginners should choose a class that fits their body, with a qualified teacher.
- Do not force headstand, shoulder stand, or extreme twists.
- Step back from pain (especially sharp pain). In hot yoga, watch for dehydration.
Symptoms or aims often mentioned with this practice
- Low back pain
- Neck pain
- Stress or unease
- Sleeplessness
- Posture
- Muscle stiffness
- Balance and fall prevention
Related symptom videos
Research notes (this is not a promise of effect)
B: Randomised trials or systematic reviews exist, but reports are modest, the group studied is limited, or study quality is limited
For chronic low back pain, a Cochrane review and summaries related to ACP guidance (NCCIH) support small improvements in pain and function. There is also research on unease and sleep quality, but results are not consistent in diagnosed anxiety disorders.
Sources
- NCCIH: Yoga Effectiveness and Safety
- Cochrane: Yoga for chronic non-specific low back pain
- NCCIH: Low-Back Pain and Complementary Health Approaches
Safety notes
Musculoskeletal injury (often the knee or lower limb). Older people should watch for falls and over-extension. In pregnancy, modifications are needed.
If you are unsure, or if you have a health condition, are pregnant, or take medicine, consult a qualified professional.
Situations in which this is better avoided
- Hot or strong practice in unstable cardiovascular disease
- An acute disc problem or a suspected fracture
- Some inverted poses in glaucoma (consult a professional)