The primary benefit that yoga offers is that which comes from its emphasis on the breath. Ancient yogic terminology refers to the breath as "pranayama," and defines it as the means of deep-breathing through which the mind and body become aligned. A regular and thoughtful practice of yoga has been found to relieve those with breathing disorders (such as asthma, COPD, and emphysema), and well as those subject to anxiety, depression, and ADH. In addition, focusing on the breath allows oxygen to penetrate to virtually every body part, purging toxins and impurities that are the cause of a multitude of both physical and mental ailments.
Unlike other forms of exercise, yoga has a massaging, or stimulating benefit upon all internal glands and organs of the body. Certain poses, called "asanas," have specific effects upon certain parts of the body. Practicing such poses, either in isolation or in conjunction with others poses, many glandular – such thyroid disorder – and organ-specific aliments – such as digestive disorders – are relieved through a faithful practice. In addition, the massaging benefits have the power to thwart disease as well as provide a warning sign where disease may be imminent.
Finally, a regular yoga practice provides a means of both strengthening and toning muscles while increasing flexibility. Yoga poses act upon even the most hidden (or unused) joints, ligaments, and tendons to both lubricate and strengthen them beyond what may be accomplished through , say, a walking routine or another form of exercise that only affects particular body parts. Indeed, even the mildest form of yoga postures has the effect of not only strengthening flaccid, weak muscles, but also of harnessing strength to those muscles that are not directly involved.
This is the secret of yoga that has come to us from antiquity.
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