Meditation and/or yoga for stress relief. Yes or No???

I've done yoga as a form of stress relief. The yoga was specifically designed for people with PTSD and taught in a manner to best set the class up for success and I found it to be great.

Yoga Nidra (yoga for relaxation) has been researched and evidence-based for decreasing the severity of symptoms of PTSD and anxiety, and increasing skills necessary for managing them when they show up (look up iRest Yoga). The program that I work in, as a therapist, is specially designed for Uniformed Service professionals (http://www.brattlebororetreat.org/usp). We use this form of yoga daily along side mindfulness meditation, Qi Gong, and fly fishing as a way to actively practice acceptance-based coping skills for distress. In the past 5 years, I have only witnessed positive results during treatment and many people continue practicing when they leave. This type of yoga is adaptable for anyone, no matter what their physical condition, as long as that person is willing.

After being on too many meds to count I find alternative medicine to be my best friend. Meditation, Tai Chi and some Yoga have really helped me out. Staying active, working out and getting involved in the martial arts (Taekwondo, Combat Hapkido and Krav Maga) have also done wonders. I can also say that these activities have not only helped with PTSD, but my chronic pain as well. I haven't found a cure for either yet, but I get more relief from the above activities then I ever did downing medication.