Yoga isn’t just about staying in shape and relaxing. A new study finds people who practice yoga have higher heart rate variability, which is a sign of a healthy heart.

Researchers in India studied the heart rate variability (HRV) in two groups of healthy men aged 18 to 48 years old. Half practiced yoga regularly and half did not.

They found that individuals who regularly do yoga have a higher HRV, compared to those who do not do it. HRV refers to the beat-to-beat changes in heart rate. In healthy individuals HRV is high whereas cardiac abnormalities lead to a low HRV.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that yoga practice may improve health through breathing exercises, stretching, postures, relaxation, and meditation.

And, previous studies have shown practicing yoga can lower the risk of developing heart disease.

Certain yoga poses, including the mountain pose, warrior pose, triangle pose, tree pose and lotus pose are believed to contribute to greater heart health, according to YogaMiracles.com. Other heart healthy benefits of practicing yoga include reducing stress, increasing flexibility and providing an overall calming.