Which exercise practice is known for alleviating stress while improving flexibility?

Yoga is recognized for its ability to alleviate stress while simultaneously improving flexibility. The practice incorporates a combination of physical postures, breath control, meditation, and relaxation techniques, all of which contribute to reducing stress levels. The emphasis on deep, controlled breathing during yoga sessions helps activate the body's relaxation response, promoting a calm and centered state of mind.

Additionally, the various poses in yoga are specifically designed to enhance flexibility by stretching muscles and increasing the range of motion in the joints. Over time, regular practice can lead to significant improvements in both physical flexibility and overall mental well-being. In contrast, other exercise practices like pole dancing can focus more on strength and coordination, boxing raises adrenaline and may increase stress levels, and running can be beneficial for overall fitness but does not have the same structured approach to stress relief and flexibility as yoga.