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.
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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I wish the VISNs were all aligned with regards to yoga offerings, such as classes, online options, and other resources. Getting information is difficult. My VISN is less engaged and organized than other regions I have heard about from other veterans. It’s dissapointing the VA mismanages Whole Health and the modalities under that umbrella by allowing the VISNs to be so inconsistent in the offerings. There does not appear to be a centrally managed Whole Health or NATIONAL WHOLE HEALTH program that we veterans can go to to utilize resources regardless of VISN. What a shame and waste of potentially great program and resource. I look outside the VA for Yoga, Tai Chi and other whole health support because my VISN is so disappointing and subpar.