WHAT IS YOGA?
Yoga derives from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’, which means ‘union’ or ‘to merge’. In its simplest form, Yoga is a system or method of connecting with our inner self.
It is about attaining complete harmony between your mind, body, surroundings and the entire Universe. A state in which our soul is blissful, and we are free from dualities.
Yoga encapsulates practices such as asanas or yogic poses, breathing exercises, pranayama and meditation. These practices expand our consciousness, connect us with the cosmos, and liberate us from that which is holding us back.
Sitting in a yoga asana is not just about maintaining a complex posture. It is a fascinating tool that can empower you to quieten the mind, look inwards and restructure the core of your existence. An experience to give you a better hold of your emotions and make you the calmest you have been in a long time.
Interestingly, Yoga can be dated back to as early as 3000 BCE, with its roots in ancient India. You can find references to Yoga practices in various sacred Indian texts such as the Vedas, Puranas and the Upanishads.
Fast forward to today, and it is one of the most widely practised disciplines, not just in India but all over the world.
Some people hold a misconception that you need to be flexible to learn and practise yoga. But in reality, it is the regular and correct practice that can enhance your resilience, physically, mentally and emotionally as well.
Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev
The founder of Isha Foundation, so beautifully describes yoga as “a transformational system through which you can change the shape of who you are right now to become the kind of person you need to be.
It is a means to open up the circle, so you are no longer going round and round, making the same mistakes and living your life in repetitive cycles.”
Amid our busy lives, yoga promises a happier, healthier and more peaceful us – something we all need and deserve.
BENEFITS OF YOGA
Research has proven that the benefits of yoga are manifolds.
Practising yoga consistently, every morning can lead to all-round growth
and enhance your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
YOGA HELPS REDUCE STRESS
One of the main benefits of doing daily yoga is its ability to quieten the mind and relax the body, thus, reducing stress.
Sitting in sadhana helps to release all that is not serving you – anger, anxiety or fears so you can experience a deep sense of contentment and tranquillity.
YOGA REDUCES PAIN AND IMPROVES POSTURE
Slouching over your work desk for long hours can ruin your posture and cause severe neck/back pain.
Yoga asanas promote regular stretching of the muscles and encourage you to sit/stand straight. It provides pain relief and a healthier posture.
YOGA MAKES YOU STRONGER AND FLEXIBLE
Yoga asanas may seem difficult at first, but they work wonders to build muscle & bone strength, overall balance & flexibility.
With regular practice, your body will start to lose its stiffness and become toned.
YOGA IMPROVES FOCUS
Yoga helps to get a grip on your thoughts. As you turn your attention inwards on the breath and concentrate on the here and now, your focus improves.
And so does your ability to be mindful. It promotes better decision making as well.
YOGA MAKES YOU RESILIENT
Yoga hones our intrinsic ability and inner strength to become more resilient, not just in the body but the mind as well.
You learn to quickly adapt and mould yourself to changing situations instead of being defined by them.
YOGA IMPROVES HEALTH
A healthy person is a happy person. When you make yoga an inseparable part of your life, you move closer to better health.
Some health benefits of yoga include weight control, better sleep, improved blood flow in the body, better digestive health, stronger immunity, more energy, etc.
YOGA RE-CONNECTS YOU WITH YOURSELF
Often, we live our lives purely at a physical level, without realising that there is a whole world inside of us.
Yoga helps us look inwards and discover our true self. It adds more profound meaning to life and better clarity towards our life’s direction.
An experienced and skilled yoga teacher can help you to learn and experience the never-ending benefits of yoga in your life.