Michelin explains that holding yin postures for two, three or even five minutes at a time can stimulate our meridian lines, which are connected to specific organs and glands – a little like reflexology. “Stimulating specific internal parts with corresponding body folds and pressure points helps to activate energy and blood flow so that it can reach, release and rebalance the entire pathway or meridian, including the regular functioning of the glands it is connected to,” says Michelin.

It makes sense that a forward fold, for example, sends more blood to the upper body and brings heat to the hamstrings. As you sink further into the posture, you might find your mind clearing and a sense of calm start to creep in, reducing stress. But can these kinds of stretches directly impact hormone levels? GP and hormone specialist Dr Louise Newson isn’t convinced. She tells Strong Women that there’s little evidence to back up the claim in scientific literature, and that doing yin yoga regularly is unlikely to reverse conditions like menopause, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), PMS or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Take menopause, for example. We know that menopause happens because of a (natural) drop in oestrogen, and that testosterone and progesterone levels are also key during this life stage. “Those hormones are mostly produced in our ovaries, with much smaller amounts produced in the brain and muscles,” she explains. “You might be able to affect your levels a little bit, but you’re not going to yin yoga your way out of the menopause.”

However, while she’s keen to stress that yin yoga can’t treat or stop menopause from happening, newson adds that “exercise and looking at ways of improving our mental health or physical health are really important. Menopause is caused by a hormone deficiency and the first line of evidence-based treatment is replacing the missing hormones, which treats the underlying cause.”

Can yin yoga really help to rebalance or boost hormones? A GP and hormonal expert assesses the evidence