Yoga is a very ancient form of exercise that has been practiced by millions of people over thousands of years. Yoga is a less intensive form of exercise than aerobic or weight training programs. Almost everyone can practice yoga safely, without fear of harming themselves or aggravating arthritis.

Although yoga is a less strenuous form of exercise, it still provides the body with impressive benefits. It increases strength and promotes balance and flexibility. It also improves your ability to concentrate, promotes relaxation, and conditions many organs within the body.

Yoga and in particular, Hatha yoga is an excellent choice for exercise if you have arthritis. In fact, studies show that rheumatoid arthritis is one condition that responds particularly well to yoga. Those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis may enjoy a reduction in both symptoms and the need for medication by practicing yoga.

The therapeutic benefits of physical activity and exercise for patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are well established. Treatment guidelines based on research confirm that exercise is safe for those suffering with arthritis, and that appropriate levels and forms of exercise will not worsen the condition. Recent studies indicate that exercise actually promotes joint health in addition to alleviating joint pain and discomfort.

Regular exercise doesn't just promote joint health and help relieve pain, although these are two very important therapeutic benefits for anyone suffering with arthritis. Exercise also provides psychological benefits. It reduces stress, helps dispel depression, and promotes overall feelings of well being.

Such psychological benefits can help persons with arthritis become and stay motivated to follow-through with the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes that can help control their condition. Yoga is particularly effective at reducing stress and alleviating depression, which is one more way it can be of benefit to those with arthritis.

Individuals who practice yoga regularly do not tend to think of it as a "workout." Yoga is an enjoyable form of exercise, and people across a wide range of physical conditions enjoy practicing it. The improvements in quality of life people experience soon after starting regular yoga practice provide another incentive to stick with the program. In comparison with other types of exercise, people like practicing yoga and look forward to their classes or daily sessions.

If you are interested in taking advantage of the therapeutic benefits of yoga for arthritis, start by talking with your physician about your plans. Yoga is almost always considered safe for people with arthritis, but it is a good idea to be sure rather than risk a potential injury.

After you obtain your physician's approval, you can look for places where you can take yoga classes in your local area. Although eventually you will be able to practice yoga on your own, it is best to get started with an experienced instructor. Your instructor can advise you about the right level of yoga activity for your physical condition, taking into account your arthritis. If you have been sedentary for some time or are debilitated to any degree, you may need to practice a milder or less strenuous form of yoga when you first begin.

Once you are familiar with some of the poses and breathing techniques involved in yoga, you may choose to practice on your own. Many people find they enjoy taking yoga classes so much, they prefer to keep attending group classes long term.