This initial study was undertaken to determine if the practice of yoga improves the symptoms and markers of heart failure (HF). 6 African-American patients (P) with an American Heart classification of Class I, II, and III were randomized into 2 equal groups The patients were recruited through cardiac and medical clinics in Atlanta. After randomization, 3 patients received the usual and customary (UC) medical care (including a home walking exercise program) for HF. The other 3 P received the UC medical care and twice weekly Yoga instruction for 8 weeks consisting of 18 postures including relaxation and breathing instruction. Measured variables included body weight (BW), flexibility (FLEX), ramp protocol treadmill duration (TM) to symptom-limited maximum. Additionally, we measured serum markers associated with the prognosis of HF, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), B-natriuretic peptide (BNP), C-reactive protein (CRP), and extra-cellular superoxide dismutase (Ec-SOD). Finally, the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHF) was administered to all patients. While it is difficult to apply a valid statistical analysis because of the low number of P, several interesting observations were made after the 8-week study period. The BW decreased in all Yoga subjects and increased in all 3 control subjects. FLEX improved in all Yoga subjects and in 2 control subjects. Probably because of a result of the home walking program, TM increased for all subjects. IL-6 decreased in all Yoga subjects but increased in 2 of the control subjects. BNP and CRP did not change in either subject group while Ec-SOD increased in 2 of the Yoga subjects and decreased in all of the control subjects. The MLHF score decreased in the Yoga subjects and in 2 of the 3 control subjects. Results from this initial study of Yoga and HF P indicate that Yoga is a beneficial addition to the UC medical care of HF P.