Digital Yoga Practices and Their Influence on Contemporary Health Behaviour

Abstract

Digital technologies have transformed the way people access, learn, and practice yoga. Mobile applications, online video classes, audio guidance, virtual instruction, and digital health platforms can make yoga more convenient and adaptable to different schedules and locations. This paper examines digital yoga practices and their influence on contemporary health behaviour, focusing on accessibility, physical activity, self-directed practice, stress management, sleep, healthy routines, motivation, social engagement, and digital safety. Evidence indicates that online yoga is generally feasible and acceptable, with systematic-review findings showing good participant satisfaction and encouraging attendance and practice rates. Recent research has also examined online yoga among specific health populations, including cancer patients, suggesting potential benefits for quality of life and psychological outcomes while emphasizing the need for further high-quality research. The World Health Organization's mYoga initiative demonstrates how digital delivery can support accessible, evidence-informed yoga practice through mobile devices. The paper argues that digital yoga can encourage healthier behaviours by reducing access barriers and supporting regular routines, but its benefits depend on engagement, quality of instruction, digital literacy, safety, and responsible use.