Alternative medicine terms defined. Holistic health theories defined. |
Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word for
“yoke” or “join together.” Essentially, it means union. It is the
science of uniting the individual soul with the cosmic spirit through physical disciplines
(postures) and mental disciplines (meditation). Patanjali offers the best definition: “Yoga is the cessation of mind.” Although yoga is considered to be scientific by modern standards, it comes from an ancient tradition. Archaeologists have found figurines in what appear to be yoga poses that are 4,000 years old. When people refer to "yoga," they generally mean Hatha Yoga. "Ha" and "tha" refer to the positive and negative currents of our energy, and the flow of breath. Hatha Yoga is the yoga of physical well-being, designed to balance body, mind, and spirit. It is practiced for the purpose of strengthening and enlivening the physical systems, although it also opens us up to spiritual awareness. Hatha yoga comes from an ancient tradition. In fact, archaeologists have found 4,000 year old figurines in what appear to be yoga poses. Stretches and postures harmonize the positive and negative currents of our energy resulting in vitality, inner balance, mental calm, and purified awareness. The correct practice of Hatha Yoga encourages physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual clarity plus confidence. The benefits of yoga are many and include:
Yoga should feel good. the exercise concept of "no pain, no gain," has no place in yoga. The key to yoga lies in its breathing practices. It emphasizes breathing with movement. Correct breathing brings out steadfastness in a yogi or yogini. |
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