Before you dismiss yoga as a bunch of difficult positions, check out this recent study, which suggests that it may reverse the risk of heart disease. Indeed, if widely implemented, yoga could benefit the estimated 45 percent of African Americans suffering from some form of cardiovascular disease.  Performing a series of poses and meditation reduced heart disease risks factors such as high blood pressure, obesity and high blood sugar.

The report, conducted by a team of researchers from SP Medical Center College in Bikaner, India, found that in three months of standard poses and a form of meditation in conjunction with receiving standard health care, the waist circumference, blood sugar and triglycerides were significantly lower and “good” HDL cholesterol levels were higher.

RH suggests the video A.M. and P.M. Yoga for Beginners With Rodney Yee and Patricia Walden (Gaiam, $20) or checking out blackyogateachers.com to find an instructor in your area.