The practice of yoga has become an increasingly popular exercise movement in the United States. Recently it has caught the attention of the medical field for its therapeutic value. Hatha Yoga is an ancient practice that uses gentle stretches, postures and breathing techniques, all of which combine to improve flexibility, balance, strength, breath control and stress reduction. Among the health benefits of yoga are lowering blood pressure, reducing or eliminating back problems, rejuvenating joint mobility, elongating the muscles and eliminating muscular tension and stress. Host Priscilla Patrick of Priscilla's Yoga Stretches has been practicing yoga for nearly 30 years, teaching on television and conducting classes in her studio in Columbia, South Carolina. Priscilla's Yoga Stretches, produced by South Carolina Educational Television, is a series of 130 15-minute segments that provide yoga stretches that meet the needs of many, from athletes using the stretching to warm muscles and increase flexibility; to folks over 50 looking for an exercise plan to alleviate arthritis; to busy executives seeking a stress relief program.
