Yoga

“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self.” – Bhagavad Gita

Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice which originated from ancient India. Its roots lie in a Sanskrit word called “Yuj” which means to join or attach or unite. Yoga represents a union of mind, body and spirit. The famous Yoga Sutras by Sage Patanjali is considered as the foundational scripture of classical yoga which includes several older traditions and was compiled around 400 CE. Due to his tremendous contributions Saga Patanijali is revered as the father of Yoga.

The core components of Yoga are:

• Yama (Self-regulation)
• Niyama (Observance or discipline)
• Asana (Postures)
• Mudras (Gestures)
• Bandhas (Neuro-muscular locks)
• Pranayama (Breathing regulations)
• Kriyas (Techniques to purify and eliminate blockages thus, enabling the absorption of pranic energy)
• Pratyahara (Withdrawal of senses)
• Dharana (Concentration)
• Dhyana (Meditation)
• Samadhi (State of meditative consciousness or enlightenment)

The ultimate goal of Yoga is ‘Moksha’ meaning liberation. There are various types of Yoga and the routine can be customized to deliver specific health benefits. Benefits of practising Yoga regularly are:

• Strong immunity
• Improved memory
• Help manage chronic health conditions
• Pain management
• Helps with curing allergies and viruses related illness
• Eases migraines
• Improves virility and fertility
• Helps with post-traumatic stress disorders
• Curbs food craving
• Optimal body weight management
• Strong and flexible body
• Build muscle strength
• Prevents cartilage and joint related issues
• Protects the spine
• Improves bone health
• Perfects the posture
• Improves the overall balance
• Improves the efficiency of lungs
• Cures respiratory diseases
• Promotes healthy heart
• Regulated the heart rate and blood pressure
• Helps manage cholesterol
• Increasing blood circulation
• Promotes glowing skin
• Maintains the nervous system
• Supports the connective tissue
• Regulates the adrenal glands
• Cures digestion related problems
• Regulates blood sugar
• Drains the lymph and sinuses
• Detoxes the entire system
• Increases focus and concentration
• Destress and relaxes
• Gives peace of mind
• Helps in sleeping deeper
• Boosts emotional health
• Regulates mood swings
• Increases self-worth
• Builds inner strength
• Brings about happiness
• Builds awareness
• Nurtures self-expression and benefits relationships
• Heals body and mind
• Transforms lifestyle
• Promotes holistic health and well-being