India, July 5 -- Yoga is often associated with flexibility, strength and better posture. Many long-term practitioners, however, say its most noticeable effects appear far beyond the mat. They describe subtle changes in the way they communicate, respond to conflict, spend time with others and process emotions.

Yoga might have benefits for health and skin, but practitioners say that the mindfulness-based practices from yoga can improve emotional regulation, self-awareness and attention, making some everyday habits naturally feel less appealing.

Gossip disappears from your vocabulary. One of the first changes some practitioners report is a reduced interest in gossip. Instead of discussing people who are absent, conversations often shift to...