Since its advent in the India of millennia ago, the practice of yoga has become popular all over the world and deservedly so. It's a gentle yet rigorous  regimen that works to relax and energize the body. It also offers a number of unique benefits.

For one thing, it works on all parts of the body. While other exercises such as tennis are great for building up the arms and weight lifting the shoulders, yoga asanas (postures or positions) work on every part of the body both inside and out.

The gentle kneading and stretching exercises not only tone the joints and muscles but also work to stimulate the blood circulation. This combined with the squeezing and stimulation of the glands leads to a wonderful improvement in the function and health of the whole body.

This gentle nature of yoga makes it a suitable routine for people of all ages. Everyone from child to adult can practice yoga and reap its benefits. Children can start yoga as soon as they can walk. Working people can use yoga to kick start the day or unwind in the evening.

But perhaps yoga is most especially suitable for the middle-aged and elderly. Many of the postures and routines work to reclaim and retain youthful glow, energy and suppleness.

Also, unlike most other exercise routines, yoga is one form of exercise you can do anywhere. Really, few health regimens are as easy to start as yoga. No need for fancy or expensive equipment, or special court, studio or stadium. And no need to invest in expensive uniforms or protective gear.

Indeed, one of its key pleasures of yoga is this barefoot informality. Just throw on shorts or leotard and a t-shirt and you're ready to go. However if you're not keen on being seen as hangovers from the hippie era and want to add a little chic to your yoga attire, you'll find some great trendy options for yoga clothes.