Yoga

Yoga, an ancient Indian art of salvation by control over mind and body, originated from a Sanskrit word meaning union or joining. In reality it's a very general term that encompasses many different disciplines, from the purely physical to the purely spiritual - and everything in between. But yoga needn't be confusing or complicated - in fact, its very essence is simplicity.

What Is Yoga?

The word yoga comes from Sanskrit, and it means to "yoke," or bring together the mind, body, and spirit.

Yoga includes exercise, it is also a lifestyle for which exercise is just one component. Disciplining your mind and body as well as connecting with your spirituality are the main goals of the yoga lifestyle.

The physical component of the yoga lifestyle is called hatha yoga. Yoga has tons of benefits. It can improve flexibility, strength, balance, and stamina. Yoga say that it reduces anxiety and stress and improves mental clarity.

Hatha yoga focuses on asanas, or poses. A person who practices yoga goes through a series of specific poses while controlling his or her breathing. Some types of yoga also involve meditation and chanting.

Basic Yoga tips

• Begin by sitting quietly either in the Yoga pose shown below, or straight-backed on a chair with your feet hip-width apart and your hands resting palms up on top of your thighs, at the bend of your legs. It's about being comfortable.
• Close your eyes and breathe in for a count of five, hold your breath for a count of five and release it for a count of five. Repeat this for 10 breaths.
• Open your eyes and as you inhale, drop your head slowly back, moving only with your neck muscles. On the exhale, bring your head forward to your chest. Inhale and lift your head and drop it gently back again, repeating movement action for five breaths. After your five breaths, bring your head to center.
• Inhale and drop your ear toward your right shoulder. On the exhale bring your head to center again. Inhale and drop your ear toward your left shoulder. On the exhale bring your head to center again. Repeat this movement for six breaths. After your six breaths, bring your head to center.