You might think of yoga as just a way for people to twist their bodies into odd shapes, but there's more to it than that. Yoga can improve your overall well-being by 21 your mind, body and spirit simultaneously. 22 in ancient India, yoga is practiced today all over the world. On the most basic level, yoga is a form of exercise that combines stretching and strength training, 23 can help you avoid injuries. Certain poses, like the cobra, work your whole body by strengthening your arm, leg, and core muscles while lengthening your spine. Of course, when you first begin to do yoga, you might not be able to touch your toes, 24 do difficult postures. With consistent practice, however, your body will become more flexible and the poses will get easier to do. Besides, when you pay attention to your breath while practicing, you also reach a more peaceful state of mind. This, 25 , can improve your mood and memory. Even if you practice yoga just an hour a week, you'll feel the difference it makes to your body and mind.