Yoga is a mind–body practice that originated in India thousands of years ago and has evolved into many modern forms of movement, breathing, and meditation.(Source) In the United States, yoga is now one of the most commonly used complementary health practices, and participation has continued to grow over the past decade.(Source)

In a typical yoga session, you move through physical postures (called asanas), coordinate your movements with your breath, and spend time in relaxation or meditation. The goal is not perfection, but balance—building strength, flexibility, and body awareness while also calming the nervous system and focusing the mind.

Yoga can be adapted for almost any fitness level. Classes, online videos, and one-on-one sessions are available for beginners through advanced practitioners. If you are new to exercise or have been physically affected by substance use, you can start with gentle, low-impact practices and gradually build up as your body becomes stronger.

For people in addiction recovery, yoga offers a structured way to reconnect with the body, practice staying present, and experience healthy forms of relief and relaxation without substances. Many mental health and addiction professionals now recommend yoga as an adjunct to evidence-based treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders.(Source)