A new review paper of 37 studies has concluded that yoga is highly beneficial for managing and improving risk factors associated with heart disease. The investigation into the benefits of the ancient mind-body practice was conducted in the Netherlands and USA, and has been published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. The analysis aimed to look at the increasing evidence that yoga reduces the risk of heart attacks and stroke and compare it against regular cardiovascular exercise.

The results showed that not only did yoga improve heart health, but the benefits were comparable to other forms of vigorous exercise. Among patients with existing coronary heart disease, yoga also significantly improved cholesterol balance, reduced stress and stabilised blood pressure. The authors conclude yoga to be comparable to exercise and medication for improving heart health.