| 1 October |
What is Yoga? |
Yoga is primarily known as a form of exercise that stretches and strengthens the
body through various poses known as asanas. For some people, yoga is the
realization of inner self satisfaction. For others, it is a religion that they believe and
must follow.
A difference in perspectives makes it hard to provide a definition of what yoga is.
So what is yoga?
Yoga is far more than breathing exercises, awkward poses, and repeated routines. Yoga is the union
of mind, spirit and body. Yoga comes from the Hindu philosophy used to attain spiritual insight and harmony.
What is yoga? To most people, yoga generally refers to the common use of a system of exercises that
is practiced as part of this discipline.
The word is derived from the Sanskrit “yeung”, which means “to join”.
There are many types of yoga, all of which have their own unique practices and beliefs. But because of space limitations, in this article we will mention only the five most common yoga practices.
But remember, schools and paths have been established with many different variations
that aren’t listed here. It would be worth your time to do further reading, if yoga interests you.
HATHA: this is the most popular variety of yoga, and one that has been commonly taught for years. In Hatha Yoga, emphasis is placed on perfecting the mind by way of perfecting the body.
With this technique many asanas or postures, breathing techniques and meditations are used.
ASHTANGA: this yoga is another popular type that moves much faster than the other schools. For them yoga can be considered as a type of aerobic movement. They utilize quick and smooth transitions between poses.
KUNDALINI: This school is focused on awakening and focusing what is known as “kundalini energy”. Kundalini energy is most easily compared to life energy that lies dormant in our bodies. It is commonly represented by a coiled snake.
MANTRA: this type of yoga is focused on calming the mind and body through the usage of words and sounds. The well known ‘om’ chant is commonly heard in this school.
TANTRA: This type of school is well known by way of its focus on sexual spirituality. They also focus on kundalini energy, although their intent for awakening it is much different from the Kundalini practice.
Yoga is a very rewarding personal practice, no matter which school you choose. People young and old can gain many benefits from regular yoga practices, and asanas can be adjusted to fit physical limitations and other complications.
If you want a break from treadmills, weight rooms, or the pool, take a look at yoga. Not only are you striving towards physical well being, you are improving your spiritual well being as well.
Traditionally, yoga consists of eight fundamental paths: Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Purna Yoga, Tantra Yoga, Maha Yoga and Ashtanga or Raja Yoga. In the western world, the term yoga usually refers to Hatha yoga and its postures, movements, and breathing techniques.
The ultimate goal of yoga is the attainment of liberation from worldly suffering and the cycle of birth and death. Yoga entails mastery over the body, mind, and emotional self, and transcendence of desire. It is said to lead gradually to knowledge of the true nature of reality.
