Beyond the mind-body exercise hype.

Mind-body exercise methods are spreading rapidly throughout the health, fitness, and rehabilitation fields. Many of the claimed benefits for these activities are not supported by clinical evidence, and, as alternative therapies, they carry legal and professional ramifications. Understanding the nature of mind-body exercise and knowing the scientific evidence behind claims for its benefits can help clinicians make appropriate recommendations to patients. For example, yoga and tai chi can reduce stress, decrease hypertension, and exert cardiorespiratory benefits, and tai chi can improve balance in seniors. However, there is not enough evidence to support replacing conventional medical treatments with somatic methods.