What is Yoga?

Yoga is a scientific system of physical and mental practices which was developed and honed to perfection by philosophers and mystics from India more than 3,000 years ago. An integral part of Ayurveda (a traditional Indian system of medicine), the word “Yoga” is literally derived from the Sanskrit verb “yuj”, meaning “to yoke/join” and “samadhi” or “concentration.

Basically, at its core, Yoga is a method by which one can increase the body’s supply of energy and wherever possible, remove ‘interference’ to the transmission of energy throughout the body, and, unlike other exercises that focuses only on the body, Yoga’s benefits extend to spirit, mind, body and emotion.

Types Of Yoga

There are numerous Yoga forms that are practised today in which some concentrate on postures and breathing exercise while some others place greater emphasis on spirituality. The more common Yoga activities we normally see are related to the former, which is essentially the physical component of the Yoga lifestyle, that is, Hatha Yoga.

Hatha Yoga focuses on asanas or specific poses that requires focused concentration, discipline and breathing that results in a greater union of mind, body and spirit.

Other popular types of Yoga include :

• Ashtanga Yoga – this is a vigourous, fast-paced yoga that helps to build flexibility, strength, concentration and stamina. One has to move quickly through a set of predetermined poses while remaining focused on deep breathing.
• Power Yoga – quite popular in the United States, this is a very active form of yoga that improves flexibility and stamina by completing poses.
• Bikram Yoga a.ka. Hot Yoga – it is practised in rooms that may be heated to more than 40 celcius
• Gentle Yoga – focuses on slow stretches, flexibility and deep breathing
• Kundaline Yoga – uses poses, deep breathing and other breathing techniques, chanting and meditation
• Iyengar Yoga – focuses on precision poses which invlove the use of benches, ropes, mats, blocks and chairs

The highest form of yoga is the Raja Yoga in which one attains “union by mental master”.

How Yoga Benefit Our Physical Health?

Aids Digestive System

One of the Yoga poses, Uddyina Bandha (the Stomach Lift), contracts and stretches the digestive organs, thus resulting in an improved blood and nerve supply to the digestive system, which gradually result in them functioning optimally.

Improves Joint Health

A lubricant known as synovial fluid is secreted when we engage in Yoga postures that requires us to stretch our joints. This synovial fluid is released into the joints, thereby keeping them supple as well as removing waste products. As a result, this reduces stiffness, which prevents arthritis or reduces the effects of arthritis (for those who are already afflicted by arthritis).

Healthier Skin

Stretching of the skin during some Yoga posture, like for example the Headstand pose, causes stimulation of skin cells. This produces a natural ‘face-lift’ that results in firmer, healthier skin which won’t sag or get wrinkled.

Luscious Hair

One of the causes of hair loss is poor blood circulation in the head, in which Yoga postures such as “Standing Forward Bend”, “Shoulderstand”, “Downward Facing Dog”, “Head Stand”, “Cow Pose”, “Camel Pose” and “Cobra Pose” could improve, by increasing blood flow to the scalp and also relieving tension in the neck. However, the postures should not be attempted if one has heart problems or high blood pressure.

Body Detoxification

In general, Yoga stretches and breathing exercises releases toxins from joints, muscles and connective tissues, due to the design and function of the Yoga routines where optimal quantity of blood is supplied to all points of the body.

Interestingly, Yoga posture such as the “Torso Twist” cleanses toxins from internal organs – when twisting, blood is squeezed out of internal organs and releasing the twist enables fresh blood flows into the organs.

So now you know a little bit of Yoga and it’s various health benefits. Why not try out some simple yoga moves here ?