Yoga may complement traditional medical therapies

While physicians rarely recommend that ill individuals pursue alternative courses of treatment for serious diseases, an increasing number of doctors are suggesting that patients seek out yoga and meditation as a complementary therapy, one that adds to pharmacological remedies rather than taking their place.

For instance, several studies have shown that engaging in a holistic mind-body practice can improve pain management in those overcoming cancer or other severe conditions.

Clinical psychologist Joseph Nowinski wrote on the website of the Huffington Post that at least 10 randomly conducted trials have indicated that yoga may improve aches, mood and quality of live for cancer patients, primarily women who have been hospitalized for breast tumors.

Likewise, he stated that anecdotal evidence suggests that tai chi can help elderly Americans become more physically active and less emotionally distressed.

Also, the rate at which physicians are suggesting complementary treatments like yoga and meditation is on the rise. A recent study published in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine determined that among adults who engage in mind-body therapies, 3 percent report doing so at the suggestion of their doctor.

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