The effects of Yoga on emotional, physical and psychological wellbeing have been known for many centuries and now the practice is enabling some prisoners in India to be released early.

Prisoners at the Gwalior city jail who attended Yoga classes will be given early release because the lessons have improved their self-control and lessened aggression, according to authorities.

The state’s inspector general of prisons Madhya Pradesh stated that for every three months of deep breathing exercises, balance postures and sun salutations, prisoners will receive 15 days off their sentence.

Attending literacy classes and passing college degrees would also improve a prisoner’s chances of early release. So far, 400 inmates have enrolled for the pilot programme.