From Yoga as Medicine by Timothy McCall:

How Yoga Works

“Many of Yoga’s benefits can be explained in ways that conform with Western ways of knowing. Here are forty ways that yoga facilitates better health, both as prevention and as treatment, that are supported by evidence. While it would have been possible to choose others, the mechanisms of action selected provide a broad overview of how yogic tools including asana (poses), pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation can improve health.”

40 Ways Yoga Heals

1. Increases flexibility
2. Strengthens muscles
3. Improves balance
4. Improves immune function
5. Improves posture
6. Improves lung function
7. Leads to slower and deeper breathing
8. Discourages mouth breathing
9. Increase oxygenation of tissues
10. Improves joint health
11. Nourishes Inter-vertebral disc
12. Improves return of venous blood
13. Increases circulation of lymph
14. Improves function of the feet
15. Improves proprioceptive receptors
16. Increases control of bodily functions
17. Strengthens bones
18. Conditions the cardiovascular system
19. Promotes weight loss
20. Relaxes the nervous system
21. Improves the function of the nervocs system
22. Improves brain funtion
23. Activates the left pcre-frontal cortext
24. Changes neurotransmitter levels
25. Lowers levels of the stress hormonoe cortisol
26. Lowers blood sugar
27. Lowers blood pressure
28. Improves levels of cholesterol and triglycerides
29. Thins the blood
30. Improves bowel functions
31. Releases unconcsious muscular gripping
32. Uses imagery to effect change in the body
33. Relieves pain
34. Lowers need for medication
35. Fosters healing relationships
36. Improves psychological health
37. Leads to healthier habits
38. Fosters spritual growth
39. Elicits the placebo effect
40. Encourages involvement in your own healing