Yoga is an ancestral practice which has captivated people’s minds and spirit along the centuries, evolving in a complex and varied manner. Although its roots are related to ancient Indian traditions, yoga quickly spread throughout the world and became a significant component of contemporary life. In modern era, where the stress, anxiety and diseases related to lifestyle are becoming more prevalent, the practice of yoga has gained increased popularity, both among practitioners and researchers. In a world full of challenges and uncertainties, yoga is still considered a beacon of light, a possible holistic method to improve the quality of life. In an era where scientific research is essential for validating and implementing practices in everyday life, scientific articles analyzing and evaluating the effects of yoga are becoming more and more relevant. In this context, the present article aims to explore the evolution of the practice of yoga, review recent research attesting to its benefits, and provide insight into future research directions in this area.