In Belgium, more than one in three people aged 15 and over claim to suffer from at least one chronic disease, and more than one in three people aged 65 and over suffer from at least two serious chronic diseases (1).

The prevalence of diabetes, depression and sleep disorders, as well as respiratory and heart disease, is systematically higher among vulnerable populations. Poor health habits, isolation and stress are aggravating factors for people at risk of chronic disease (2; 3).

In the poor Brussels area, the population has less access to preventive medicine and makes greater use of emergency services. While prescription sport is an innovative measure, it is not suitable for everyone and does not necessarily reduce stress levels. Disadvantaged socio-economic groups are also less likely to have access to psychotherapy (4).

Group mind-body practices such as yoga have been shown to have a positive impact on many chronic diseases, as well as on lifestyles. Indeed, yoga acts on the neuro-psycho-physiological mechanisms behind chronic conditions. Learning to breathe reduces stress, promotes well-being and helps to manage health (5).