Benefits of Yoga
- Builds Muscle Strength
- Reduces joint pain and immobility
- Improves Flexibility
- Reduces back and neck pain
- Prevents cartilage and joint breakdown
- Helps reduce stress and anxiety
Helps those dealing with
- Fibromyalgia
- Asthma
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Heart Disease & Hypertension
- Insomnia
- Depression
History of Yoga
Yoga is deeply rooted in Indian history dating back 5000 years ago and entails much more than just the physical poses. It includes mental practices such as meditation, breath work, and philosophy. At first it was thought to have originated at a much later date, around 500 B.C.E. during the time of Gautama the Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. However, not long ago archeologists discovered depictions engraved in soapstone that strongly resemble yoga postures dating back to 3000 B.C.E. Evidence is also found in the Rig-Veda, a collection of hymns, which is the oldest book in Sanskrit or any Indo-European language. Sanskrit is the primary classical Indian language and the liturgical language of Hinduism, the religion of the majority of the people in India. The Rig-Veda lead to the beginnings of Hinduism and also to Buddhism and Jainism, all of which define yoga as a “spiritual discipline.” Philosophies and traditions developed over thousands of years shifting the focus to self-enlightenment. The poses were later implemented by the Buddhist teachings, turning the practice of yoga into what we recognize today.
What is Modern Yoga?
Today the practice of yoga emphasizes the physical poses and has become an increasingly popular popular way to increase flexibility, gain strength, and reduce stress. Different styles have developed over the years such as Kundalini Yoga, Hot Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Restorative Yoga, and Yin Yoga. Each variation moves through the poses, or asanas as it is called in Sanskrit, with a different emphasis. Hatha Yoga strongly focuses on correct alignment of the body. In fact most yoga classes focus on correct alignment, but they may go through the poses with a different intention. Some go through quickly to develop a constant flow, while others hone in on and hold each posture, still others break down the poses more slowly for a more gentle workout.
Regardless the style, the goal of most yoga is to balance mind, body, and spirit through physical practice, breath work, and meditation, all requiring self-inquiry.
“Yoga, an ancient but perfect science, deals with the evolution of humanity. This evolution includes all aspects of one’s being, from bodily earth to self realization. Yoga means union – the union of body with consciousness and consciousness with the soul. Yoga cultivates the ways of maintaining a balances attitude in day to day life and endows skill in the performance of one’s actions. ” — B.K.S. Iyengar