An overview of Yoga

The most common type of Yoga practiced in the west is most closely aligned with Hatha Yoga which traces its roots back seven centuries.  The major tenets of this practice of Yoga are contained in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika authored by Swami Swatamarama.  Hundreds of millions of Hindus practice this form of Yoga as a way of life

This kind of yoga is a combination of asanas which are physical exercises and postures, pranayama  which are breathing exercises and meditation. It is said to provide a balanced and holistic  approach to achieving perfect physical mental health, happiness and tranquility.

Eastern yogis or yoga practioners believe that asanas are just stepping stones to a higher level of being. They believe that working on the body alone, as several million westerners are devoted to doing , is a waste of time as the body is mortal whereas the solu is immortal. Hatha yoga is in fact just the first of eight steps which form Asthanga yoga which is a much more spiritual approach to being.

You can learn yoga by attending classes although there are some excellent books and videos available too. As with all forms of exercise though it’s important to get the technique and posture right at the beginning so finding a reputable teacher may be the most advisable route when starting out.

Yoga can be practiced by anyone of any age and as it is low impact and focuses on increasing flexibility and muscular endurance.  It’s techniques are designed to bring the mind and body into harmony which can be particularly useful for stress and fatigue.

See our resources page for books and resources relating to yoga

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