The History of Yoga

yoga is an ancient practice and has been in existence for millennia. The word yoga comes from the Sanskirt work yuj. Yuj is often interpreted to mean union or a method of practice. .

It is believed that an Indian Sage named Patanjali created one of the first comprehensive guides on yogi. The book, called yoga Sutra, was created approximately 2,000 years ago. This collection still serves as the basis for most forms of yoga practiced today.

The yoga Sutra outlined the eight limbs of yoga as follows: the yamas (restraints), niyamas (observances), asana (postures), pranayama (breathing), pratyahara (withdrawal of senses), dharana (concentration), dhyani (meditation), and samadhi (absorption).

There are many branches of yoga. In Raja yoga the focus is on meditation. Karma yoga states that what we experience today is a result of past actions. In Bhakti yoga the focus is on channeling emotions in a positive manner. The various branches of yoga offer something for every taste and style.

yoga is an extremely popular activity today. Once practiced mainly in the East yoga has attracted more and more Western practitioners. People are attracted to yoga for its health benefits, especially its capacity to create a relaxed mind and body.

Most people practicing yoga in the west practice asana yoga. Asana yoga is designed to cultivate the mind and body in a manner that is conducive to long periods of meditation. Physical strength and stamina are key components of asana yoga.

Hatha yoga is the term used to mean a set of physical exercises. The exercises of hatha yoga are meant to align skin, muscles and bones. In addition, hatha seeks to open the channels of the body so that energy can flow freely.

In many forms of yoga a mantra is used. Om is a mantra that is often chanted at the beginning and end of a yoga session. Ancient yogis used this mantra to indicate the vibrations of the universe.

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