[Yoga in Germany - Results of a Nationally Representative Survey].

BACKGROUND

Yoga is increasingly used as a therapeutic and preventive method worldwide. The aim of this nationally representative survey was to assess prevalence and patterns of yoga practice in Germany.

METHODS

Between August and September 2014, a nationally representative sample of 2,041 individuals of at least 14 years of age was interviewed regarding actual and prior yoga practice. Differences between socioeconomic subgroups were analyzed using chi-squared tests.

RESULTS

Lifetime prevalence of yoga practice was 15.1%, point prevalence 3.3%. Higher prevalence was associated with female gender (p < 0.001), higher education (p < 0.001), employment (p = 0.047), and living in a major city (p < 0.001). Mean duration of yoga practice was 48.2 months; 61.7% practiced at least once weekly. The main reasons for yoga practice were improved physical (62.8%) and mental well-being (56.9%) as well as physical (54.4%) and mental capacity (50.0%). Positive changes due to yoga were reported by 89.7% of practitioners, mainly increased inner balance (58.8%). Another 16.1% of those who were not currently practicing could imagine practicing yoga in the next 12 months.

CONCLUSION

An estimated 15.7 million Germans are currently practicing yoga or are at least interested in starting to practice, most commonly women, metropolitans, and those with a higher education as well as employed persons. Almost 90% practitioners report positive changes due to their yoga practice.