Yoga is extensively known as a form of exercise that stretches
and strengthens the
body through various poses known as
ASANAS. For some yoga is the realization of inner self
satisfaction. For other it is a religion they believe in and follow.
Most people find it hard to define yoga, because of the many
different beliefs.
So what is yoga?
Yoga generally refers to the common use of a system of
exercises that
is practiced as part of a discipline.
Yoga is the union of mind, spirit and body. Yoga comes from the
Hindu philosophy used to attain spiritual insight and harmony.
Yoga goes far beyond just mere exercises full of awkward
routine.
Where does the word Yoga come from.
Yoga come from the Sanskrit word Yeung. Sanskrit is the ancient
language of Hinduism,
Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism.
( Joshi, 2016)
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.
HATHA: this is the most popular form of yoga in the west and
one that is commonly taught to beginners. Hatha classes are
performed low and are designed to calm your mind, body, and
spirit in preparation for meditation. With this technique many
asanas or postures, breathing techniques and meditations
are
used.
ASHTANGA: This type of Yoga done at a faster pace. Ashtanga
yoga is very physical and
its not recommended for beginners. A
typical session last 90 minutes and consist of a
variety of postures. Twisting, backbends, inversions, are all part
of a session. If you can't
touch up toes or balance yourself in
seated poses then do not try to start with Ashtanga yoga.
KUNDALINI: This type of yoga is considered spiritual as it
focuses on kundalini energy.
Kundalini energy is most easily compared to life energy that lies
dormant at the base of your spine until it is awakened. It is
believed you can awaken this
energy by breathing techniques,
meditation, and the chanting of mantras.
MANTRA: this type of yoga is focused on calming the mind and
body through the
usage of words and sounds. The goal of Mantra
yoga is to free the mind of everything and focus on words and
sounds.
It is believed that by focusing on a word or sound you
are able to enter into a deep state of mediation. You are able to
be at one with the
universe.
TANTRA:
Tantra yoga is probably the most popular form of yoga.
Tantra yoga is more concentrated on the spiritual healing and
most of all the integration
of the body, mind, and spirit. Tantra
yoga helps one to get in touch with their body and
inner energies. Tantra strengthens relationships and enhancing
intimacy among couples.
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: 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.
Inconclusion 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.
references
Joshi, N. (2016, August 6)
Sanskrit.https://www.ancient.eu/Sanskrit/
