Yoga has become one of the most popular tools in complementary medicine worldwide; an analysis by the NCCIH revealed a dramatic increase in use of yoga as a complementary approach by American adults from 5% in 2002 to 15.8% in 2022. We are passionate that yoga feature in a conference on Integrative medicine in a way that reflects its widespread popularity and provides a full overview of this safe, effective, accessible, holistic practice.

Yoga is often described as "beneficial for mental health and wellbeing"; however, mental health and wellbeing is the result of a complex interplay of factors: what role can yoga play in whole-person health? Is there evidence to support its use? Why, and how, should the British public practice yoga to optimise the benefits?

We will explore:
-What is Yoga? (and what isn't?)
-The evidence as a healthcare tool
-Challenges, Risks and Limitations 
-Social Prescribing: yoga for NHS patients
-Practical considerations and recommendations for people experiencing mental distress 
-Adaptations & Considerations for neurodivergent individuals
-Burnout: yoga for NHS staff
-A practical demonstration and shared practice