YOGA
Yoga; to attach, join, harness or yoke
Yoga is a combination of spiritual, mental and physical practices,
helping individuals to control and still the mind, in an effort to
become more enlightened.
Originating in India, and rooted in the religion of Hinduism, yoga is an ancient practice combining meditation, breathwork and physical poses. Coming from the Sanskrit word 'yuj', yoga can be traced back to Northern India over 5000 years ago. There are 6 main branches of yoga, all holding different sets of characteristics, and should all be integrated into a yoga practice.
- Hatha yoga: the physical - yoga of the body
- Raja yoga: discipline - yoga of transcendence
- Karma yoga: act of service - yoga of selflessness
- Bhakti yoga: path of devotion - yoga of the heart
- Jnana yoga: developing wisdom - yoga of the mind
- Tantra yoga: sensuality - yoga of feminine energy
Yoga has been Westernised over time, and is now seen more as a form of exercise, instead of a philosphy or way of life. The most common types of physical yoga classes seen today are Bikram, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Iyengar, Power, Rocket, Yin, and many more. Although these physical asana classes teach one aspect of yoga, they hold huge benefits, not only strengthening muscle and enhancing flexibility, but also have hugely impact the promotion of better sleep, reduce stress and anxiety and help yogi's control their mind and breath under uncomfortable circumstances.