Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. It involves physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques that aim to improve physical, mental, and spiritual health. Despite being thousands of years old, yoga continues to gain popularity in modern times. In fact, a 2020 survey found that more than 36 million Americans practiced yoga in the past year, up from 20 million in 2012.

One reason why yoga endures is because of its many proven benefits. Research has shown that regular yoga practice can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, improve sleep quality, increase flexibility, strength, and balance, and even lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, yoga has been found to enhance brain function, improve immunity, and promote overall well-being.

Another reason why yoga endures is its adaptability to modern times. While the ancient practice of yoga remains intact, its application has evolved to meet the needs of modern society. For example, many yoga classes today cater to specific needs such as stress reduction, weight loss, or injury recovery. Additionally, yoga has become more accessible than ever with the proliferation of online classes and mobile apps.

Despite its many benefits, yoga is not without controversy. Some argue that yoga has been appropriated from its cultural roots, while others criticize the commercialization and commodification of yoga. It is important for journalists to delve into these issues while reporting on yoga’s enduring popularity.

In conclusion, the ancient practice of yoga continues to endure in modern times due to its many proven benefits and its adaptability to meet the needs of modern society. As journalists, it is our responsibility to report on yoga’s enduring popularity while also acknowledging its controversies and cultural roots.