Yoga is a mind and body practice. Various styles of yoga combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. Yoga is an ancient practice that may have originated in India. It involves movement, meditation, and breathing techniques to promote mental and physical well-being. A regular yoga practice can promote endurance, strength, calmness, flexibility, and well-being. Yoga is now a popular form of exercise around the world. According to a 2017 national survey, one in seven adults in the United States practiced yoga in the past 12 months. There are several types of yoga and many disciplines within the practice. History The first mention of the word “yoga” appears in Rig Veda, a collection of ancient texts. Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means “union” or “to join.” Yoga can be traced back to northern India over 5,000 years ago. Indian monks spread their knowledge of yoga in the West during the late 1890s. Modern yoga teachings became widely popular in Western countries by the 1970s. Branches of Yoga The overall philosophy of yoga is about connecting the mind, body, and spirit. There are six branches of yoga. Each branch represents a different focus and set of characteristics. The six branches are: Hatha yoga: This is the physical and mental branch that aims to prime the body and mind. Raja yoga: This branch involves meditation and strict adherence to a series of disciplinary steps known as the eight limbs of yoga. Karma yoga: This is a path of service that aims to create a future free from negativity and selfishness. Bhakti yoga: This aims to establish the path of devotion, a positive way to channel emotions and cultivate acceptance and tolerance. Jnana yoga: This branch of yoga is about wisdom, the path of the scholar, and developing the intellect through study. Tantra yoga: This is the pathway of ritual, ceremony, or consummation of a relationship. Types of modern yoga: Modern yoga focuses on exercise, strength, agility, and breathing. It can help boost physical and mental well-being. There are many styles of yoga. A person should choose a style based on their goals and fitness level. Types and styles of yoga include Ashtanga yoga, Bikram yoga, Hatha yoga, Iyengar yoga, Kripalu yoga, Kundalini yoga, Power yoga, Sivananda, Viniyoga, Yin yoga, Prenatal yoga, Restorative yoga, etc Benefits of yoga According to a 2012 survey, 94% of adults who practice yoga do so for wellness reasons. Yoga has many physical and mental benefits, including: building muscle strength enhancing flexibility promoting better breathing supporting heart health helping with treatment for addiction reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain improving sleep enhancing overall well-being and quality of life It is advisable to consult a medical professional, if possible, before starting a yoga practice. Guidelines for Yoga: Apply precautions before trying for any yogic practices. Consult a trained professional for the basics. Start with simple postures. No age limit to practice yoga. Just choose the technique benefitting your body abilities. The best time to practice yoga is in the morning before breakfast. It is not advisable to practice yoga soon after any meal. Yoga routing should start with asanas, then pranayama and then meditation. A quiet, clean place, preferably amidst nature is most suitable for yoga. Wear loose comfortable clothes that allow easy body part movement. Include 15 minutes of exercise and 15 minutes of breathing and meditation for each yoga session. Drink a glass of water 15 minutes prior to the workout. Always breathe through the nose unless specified otherwise. Never force or strain. Relax briefly between each asana. Remember the golden rule: "if its uncomfortable - DON'T" Summary Yoga is an ancient practice that has changed over time. Modern yoga focuses on poses designed to stimulate inner peace and physical energy. Ancient yoga did not place as much emphasis on fitness; instead, it revolved around cultivating mental focus and expanding spiritual energy. There are many different types of yoga available. The style a person chooses will depend on their expectations and level of physical agility. People with certain health conditions, such as sciatica, should approach yoga slowly and with caution. Yoga will tone and strengthen the body, improve your overall flexibility and physical balance and bring a sense of calmness and peace.
