Yoga is not a religious practice. Nevertheless, it does put us in touch with our spiritual essence. The original Buddhist yogis practiced yoga to increase enlightenment and enhance their understanding of the world around them. Yoga was a preparation to meditation. The origin of yoga was far more spiritual then it is today, but it still enhances our spiritual self. Yoga improves our immune system, heart rate, cardio health, circulation, and breathing. It reduces stress, anxiety and enhances flexibility and muscle tone. The benefits of yoga can reduce the effects of aging both physically and mentally.