Delayed flights and long layovers can lead to frustration over wasted hours sitting and waiting. Flying can also pose a health challenge.

That’s where yoga comes in, helping to relieve mental and physical stress. Stress reduction is the top reason for taking a vacation, so flying should be as easy and pleasant as possible.

Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that includes meditation, breath control and body postures that stretches and strengthens muscles. Prolonged sitting, especially in tight airplane seats and seating areas decrease circulation and tightens leg, hip and back muscles.

10 airport locations for yoga

>> Burlington Airport (BTV): Located on the second floor across from the observation tower; free studio offers yoga mats, blocks and cushions.

>> Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Terminal 3 Mezzanine Level; free studio offers yoga mats and a TV monitor showing nature imagery and yoga practices; a flight monitor in-studio provides departure/arrival information.

>> Chicago Midway Airport (MDW): Concourse C; free and similar to O’Hare, the room offers full-length mirrors, mats, display of yoga postures and images of nature set to a calming soundtrack.

>> Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): D40 located between terminals B and D airside; free and open 24 hours; this fully outfitted yoga studio also connects to the airport walking path and features large panel windows with a birds-eye view of the runway.

>> Denver International Airport (DEN): Concourse A, located near Duty-­Free; paid access; Yoga on the Fly is a private airport yoga studio offering movement, meditation and breathing classes that are 8 to 20 minutes long.

>> Frankfurt Airport (FRA): Terminal 1, near C14 as well as Terminal 2 near D1; free and open 24 hours; mats, blocks, cushions, pads and floor-to-ceiling mirrors with TV instruction and fliers to guide travelers through yoga practices; music and a giant Buddha image offer a soothing atmosphere.

>> Helsinki Airport (HEL): Kainuu Lounge; free and open 24 hours; there are also ergonomic chairs, a book swap, extra soft carpet and free Wi-Fi.

>> London Heathrow (LHR): SkyTeam Lounge in Terminal 4, opposite Gate 10; paid access; a day pass through the SkyTeam lounge is required; yoga mat, video exercises, food and drinks included.

>> San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Between terminals 1 and 2, and also in Terminal 3; free, open 24 hours. In 2012, SFO became the first airport to offer yoga rooms; both rooms are located in the domestic departures area.

>> Sioux Falls Airport (FSD): Near the business center; free; a small yoga and meditation area where travelers can find a little peace.