Yoga: An Introduction to Yoga

By http://www.ucl.ac.uk

An Introduction to Yoga

Thousands of years of philosophy have been attributed to yoga practice. It can be practiced in a variety of styles and ways which makes it accessible to anybody. There are no specific requirements to practice yoga. This website will attempt to introduce the concept of yoga.

What is Yoga?

Yoga can be defined as a complete science of life. It was originated in India many thousands of years ago. It is the most diversified spiritual practice in the world and crosses over many cultures including Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. Yoga also extends over multiple languages such as Hindi, Tibetan, Sanskrit and many more.

Yoga can be described as a system of personal development which encompasses the entire body, mind and spirit. The ancient yogis perceived the physical body as a vehicle, with the mind as its driver, the soul as its identity, and action, emotion and intelligence as the three forces which pull the vehicle. In order to integrate the three forces, they must be in balance. The yogis, therefore created a method for maintaining this balance Ð a way that combined all movements required for physical health along with the breathing and meditation techniques that enable peace of mind.

The word Yoga means to Òjoin or yoke togetherÓ referring to a unity of body, mind and spirit . This can be achieved through the three main Yoga structures: exercise, breathing and meditation. The exercises of Yoga are designed to put pressure on the glandular systems of the body, thereby increasing its efficiency and total health. The breathing techniques are based on the concept that breath is the source of life in the body. Together, exercise and breath control prepare the body and mind for meditation, making it easier to achieve a quiet mind and be free from everyday stress. Regular daily practice of all three parts of this structure of Yoga produce a clear mind and a strong body.

Yoga for Health

Yoga offers health benefits for every individual, from self-realisation to the curing of various ailments. Co-ordinating breath and movement in typical yoga poses heats the blood to thin it and allow it to circulate more easily. Better circulation significantly removes joint pain and eliminates disease and toxins from the internal organs. The impurities in the body are then excreted in the form of sweat which is generated from the heat of various styles of athletic yoga. Amongst illnesses which are healed by yoga are: cancer, autism, anxiety, asthma, heart disease, chronic fatigue, I.B.S, depression, diabetes, insomnia and allergies. Yoga therapy also enhances sex life, easier childbirth and aids in giving up smoking.

Courtesy to http://www.ucl.ac.uk