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

Abstract

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.