In India, the conversation around fertility issues is gaining momentum, but many couples still face a societal stigma when it comes to treatments like IVF and IUI. For couples experiencing infertility, these medical interventions often come with not only financial burdens but also emotional and cultural pressures. With one in six couples facing infertility, many are seeking alternatives to these methods. A growing number of women are now exploring natural, holistic approaches, and one such solution gaining attention is yoga.
A startup called Yog4Lyf, based in Varanasi, is contributing to this shift. Founded by a group of yoga practitioners and tech entrepreneurs, the company offers structured yoga programs designed to address fertility-related concerns like PCOS, thyroid issues, and hormonal imbalances. Rather than focusing on pharmaceutical solutions, these programs combine ancient yoga practices with modern technology, providing users with the flexibility of guided videos and live sessions from home.
The team behind Yog4Lyf believes that yoga offers more than just physical benefits—it also addresses emotional and mental wellbeing. “Yoga is a holistic practice. It’s not just about working on the body but also on the mind,” says Vishal, one of the co-founders. Practices like pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation are incorporated into the programs to reduce anxiety and stress, both of which impact fertility greatly. This emphasis on mindfulness sets yoga apart from many other forms of exercise.
The impact of these practices can be seen in the growing number of success stories shared by users. “We’ve seen women who had almost given up hope conceive naturally after just a few months of consistent practice,” says Vishal. But while these positive stories are encouraging, the founders emphasize that yoga is not meant to replace medical treatment.
Instead, it serves as a complementary approach, offering a more gentle, mindful path for those seeking holistic wellness.
Kavita, co-founder and head yoga trainer at Yog4Lyf, adds that gentle pelvic strengthening and hip-opening asanas (yoga poses) are especially helpful for women dealing with PCOS and infertility. These specific poses promote circulation and help balance hormones, contributing to improved reproductive health.
Despite its success, Yog4Lyf faces its own set of challenges. Growing a wellness startup, especially one rooted in traditional practices, requires overcoming skepticism and building trust with users. Still, the startup has crossed the milestone of 10 lakh+ downloads, with the community growing steadily through word of mouth and user experiences.
As India’s conversations around reproductive health continue to evolve, Yog4Lyf is part of a wider trend of individuals seeking alternative, holistic solutions for fertility. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or other forms of wellness, the focus is shifting from quick fixes to long-term,sustainable practices.
While the startup’s journey is far from over, it’s clear that yoga, with its ability to nurture both body and mind, is playing a significant role in the fertility journeys of many women.