Yoga is widely known as a form of exercise that stretches and strengthens the body through various poses known as Asanas. For some people Yoga is the realization of inner self satisfaction. For others it is a religion that they believe and follow.
All of this statement makes it difficult to understand what Yoga really is. So, what is Yoga?
Yoga goes far beyond just mere exercises full of awkward routines. Yoga is the union of mind, spirit and body. Yoga comes from the Hindu philosophy used to attain spiritual insight and harmony.
Yoga generally refers to the common use of a system of exercises that is practiced as part of this discipline.
The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit “yeung”, which means to join. A yoke as used on oxon is closely related, but also the same root gives us “join”, “junction”, “junta”, “adjust”, “joust” and “juxtapose” to name a few.
There are many institutions of Yoga, all of which have their own unique practices and beliefs. In this article we have listed the five most common Yoga practices.
However, schools and paths have been established with many different variations that are not listed here.
Hatha Yoga: this is the most popular variety of Yoga and one that has been commonly taught for many years. Hatha Yoga is a way of perfecting the mind by perfecting the body.
This technique uses many asanas or postures, breathing techniques and meditation.
Kundalina Yoga: this school of Yoga is focused on awakening and focusing on what is known as kundalini energy. Kundalini energy is most easily compared to life energy that lies dormant in our bodies. It is commonly represented by a coiled snake.
Mantra Yoga: this type of Yoga is focused on calming the mind and body through using words and sounds. The well known “om” chant is commonly heard in this form of Yoga.
Tantra Yoga: this type of school is well known by way of its focus on sexual spirituality. It also focuses on kundalini energy, although it is very different from what is practiced in Kundalini Yoga.
Yoga is a very diverse practice, no matter which type you choose. People young and old can gain many benefits from regular yoga practices. The asanas can be adjusted to fit physical limitations and other complications.
If you want a change from treadmills, weight rooms or the pool, take a look at Yoga. Not only are you striving towards physical well being, you are striving towards spiritual well being as well.
Traditionally, Yoga consists of eight fundamental paths. These are Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Purna Yoga, Tantra Yoga, Maha Yoga and Ashtanga or Raja Yoga. In the western world, the term yoga often refers to Hatha Yoga and its postures, movements and breathing techniques.
The ultimate goal of Yoga is the attainments of liberation from wordly suffering and the cycle of birth and death. Yoga entails mastery over the body, mind and emotional self and the transcendence of desire. It is said to gradually lead to knowledge of the true nature of reality.
