10 Scientific Benefits of Yoga

by Ann Swanson, The Great Courses

Yoga originated in the Indus Valley more than 5,000 years ago. It wasn’t until the 20th century, however, that it found its way to the West, gradually growing from a fringe interest among countercultural youth to a mainstream fitness phenomenon that’s still going strong. We’ve all heard the countless benefits of yoga touted by lifestyle magazines and wellness influencers, but what does science have to say about the effects of this ancient mind-body practice?

That is what you will explore in 10 Scientific Benefits of Yoga. Taught by yoga therapist and author Ann Swanson, these 10 lectures dive into recent studies that have sought to find why yoga seems to make such amazing positive impacts on our physical, mental, and even spiritual health. With the support of extensive scientific research, you’ll discover why yoga’s unique combination of mindfulness and low-impact movement has been linked to improvements in everything from anxiety and depression to blood pressure and chronic pain.

Even with its many benefits, yoga isn’t some magic cure. But, as you’ll see throughout these lectures, its integration of movement and mindset has measurable benefits for any practitioner, regardless of age, size, or ability. As Ann says, “If you can breathe, you can do yoga.” In fact, you’ll find that research supports yoga as a beneficial practice at every stage of life, from childhood to old age. With Ann as your guide, this course will help you understand the science behind yoga’s astonishing impact on the mind and body in ways anyone can understand and put into practice.

Audible Audio

Published May 14, 2026

About the author

Ann Swanson is the author of the internationally bestselling book SCIENCE OF YOGA, which has been translated into over 15 languages. Her new book, Meditation for the Real World, illuminates the fascinating science behind meditation with step-by-step practices to help you find peace in everyday life. She worked alongside Harvard neuroscientist Dr. Sara Lazar and an illustrator for the New York Times to create this science-backed visual guide.

However, Ann wasn’t a naturally “chill person,” and meditation didn’t come easy to her. Overcoming her own chronic pain and anxiety led her to India to study yoga and meditation, to China to explore tai chi, and to earn a Master of Science graduate degree in Yoga Therapy. Now, Ann blends cutting-edge research with ancient wisdom, resulting in realistic techniques you won’t just learn – you’ll love to live by! Order her new book at MeditationForTheRealWorld.com for exclusive bonuses available to our listeners.

Reviews

[AttackGirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book I’ve been doing yoga stretches for many years well since my first back injury or maybe before. I recall specifically when the army started doing the yoga stretches all of that was without the esoteric parts such is with this book and the self healing meditation and self care parts. The author started out wonderful actually explained verses just immediate breathe stretch. Now if you have never done yoga this maybe a little challenging and perhaps bringing up pain in the last few paragraphs might be a lead in to another book by the author regardless it should have been discussed from the beginning. You don’t bring up topics as you are ending the book and was the repeating … intentionally?

As I mowed the lawn specifically for being out in the soft rain because the house filled with cats and kitten was stifling!

Did I hear that correctly to much pain after lacrosse? Hahahahahahhahah Bah hahahahha