What is Yoga? A Beginners Look

WHAT IS YOGA?

Yoga was developed in India for mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being up to 5,000 years ago. Today, millions of people use different aspects of yoga for stress relief, fitness, wellness, healing, vitality, mental clarity, peace of mind, and spiritual growth.

While many religions aspire to make yoga their own creation, it belongs to all of us. It contains many characteristics that can be found in the Hindu and Buddhist faiths. The structural framework of the yoga practice is based on the eight limbs of yoga. Each is part of a holistic focus which eventually brings completeness to the individual as they find their connectivity to the divine.

The Eight Limbs of Yoga

Yama : Universal morality Niyama : Personal observances Asanas : Body postures Pranayama : Breathing exercises, and control of prana Pratyahara : Control of the senses Dharana : Concentration and cultivating inner perceptual\ awareness Dhyana : Devotion, Meditation on the Divine

Samadhi : Union with the Divine

Power Yoga

Power yoga is a more advanced form of yoga that is adapted from the basic Ashtanga yoga. Most poses are held for up to five full breaths compared to the usual one to three breaths. It requires strength and focus, as well as increased amounts of energy. Power yoga creates a new level of discipline in your mind and body as you pose, move around, and increase your flexibility while remembering to breathe.

Benefits of Yoga

Weight reduction Increases your flexibility Increases your muscle strength Improves your energy Cardio and circulatory health Perfects your posture Drains your lymphs and boosts immunity Helps your focus Improves your balance Eases Mirgraines Releases Stress Pain Relief Inner Peace