What is Yoga?
Updated: Feb 7
Hello Yoga lovers!
In this post you will find some useful information about yoga and its benefits. If you are new to yoga and wondering what it is, what are the benefits of yoga, or what type of yoga is ideal for you, you are in the right place!
What is yoga?
Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that helps us to control our body, mind, and soul. It is the ability to connect the mind, body and spirit in a harmonical way that brings peace and complete well being. The word 'Yoga' comes from the Sanskrit word 'Yuj', meaning 'to connect, to join, or to unite'. The consistent practice of yoga can lead to amazing physical, mental and emotional benefits.
Yoga has no age. It can be practiced by kids to adults of any age or physical condition. The most important thing is to listen to your body and do anything that is comfortable for you. If a pose is uncomfortable for your body, there are several modifications for you to try.
Benefits of yoga
Yoga has many benefits for your body, mind and soul. Some of them are:
Improves flexibility, strength and balance
Improves brain function
Reduces the risk of heart disease
Boosts the blood circulation
Boosts your immune system
Corrects posture
Help you reach and maintain a healthy weight
Boosts self-esteem and makes you happier
Boosts your energy
Reduces stress and anxiety
Improves sleep quality
Eases asthma symptoms
Eases chronic back pain
Helps with Multiple sclerosis
Types of yoga
There are several types of yoga you can choose from. From a more physically demanding class to a more easy, relaxing, meditative class. Here are some of the types of yoga you can choose depending on your needs:
Hatha Yoga It comes from the words 'ha' meaning sun, and 'tha' meaning moon. Hatha yoga aims to join these two energies to bring balance to the body and mind. A class of Hatha yoga involves breathing techniques, asanas and meditation which help to bring peace to the mind and body. This type of yoga is easier for beginners as its usually paced slower than other types of yoga.
Vinyasa Yoga Vinyasa Yoga or flow yoga combines multiple asanas that smoothly transition into one another, linking each asana with the breath. A Vinyasa class may be different from teacher to teacher.
Iyengar yoga It was founded by B.K.S. Iyengar. A class of Iyengar yoga focuses on alignment and asanas are held for longer in order to develop strength, balance and flexibility. You also used different props like blocks, bolsters and belts in order to help people to achieve an asana and avoid injuries.
Ashtanga Yoga It is a vigorous style of yoga that involves set series of postures. It is a flowing style linking breath to movement. This style of yoga is not for beginners as its sequences are physically demanding.
Yin Yoga