Yoga is comprehensively known as a form of exercise that
stretches and strengthens the body through various poses known
as ASANAS. For some people yoga is the realisation of inner self
satisfaction. For others it is a religion that they believe and
must follow.
All of this statement makes it hard to really make a full
realisation of what yoga 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.
What is yoga?
Yoga as a rule refers to the general use of a system of
exercises that is practiced as part of this discipline.
The word is derived from the Sanskrit "yeung", which means to
join. A yoke as used on oxen is closely related, but also the
same root gives us "join", "junction", "junta", "adjust",
"joust", and "juxapose" to name a few.
There are many institutions of yoga all of which have their own
unique practices and beliefs. But in this article we have listed
down the five most common yoga practices.
However, schools and paths have been established with many
different variations that aren't listed here.
HATHA: this is the most popular variety of yoga and one that has
been commonly taught for years. So what is yoga for them? For
them it is perfecting the mind by way of perfecting the body.
With this technique many asanas or postures, breathing
techniques and meditations are used.
ASHTANGA: this yoga is another popular type they are much faster
than the other schools. What is yoga for ashtanga's?
For them yoga can be considered as a type of aerobic yoga for
they instill quick and smooth transitions between poses.
KUNDALINI: This school is focused on awakening and focusing 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: this type of yoga is focused on calming the mind and
body through the usage of words and sounds. The well known 'om'
chant is commonly heard in this school.
TANTRA: This type of school is well known by way of its focus on
sexual spirituality. They also focus on kundalini energy,
although their intent for awakening it is much different from
the Kundalini practice.
Yoga is a very diverse practice, no matter which school you
choose. People young and old can gain many benefits from regular
yoga practices, and asanas can be adjusted to fit physical
limitations and other complications.
If you want a break 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 which
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 attainment of liberation from
worldly suffering and the cycle of birth and death. Yoga entails
mastery over the body, mind, and emotional self, and
transcendence of desire. It is said to lead gradually to
knowledge of the true nature of reality.
About the author:
Clive Harman Arthur of a free beginner's guide to Yoga e-course
http://www.site4information.com/yoga
