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What is Yoga Anyway?



By : Daniel Anderson    99 or more times read
Submitted 2011-07-03 11:39:43
What is Yoga Anyway?


Yoga has been in existence for more than 5,000 years.


Several yoga teachers have added their own poses and moves to basic Yoga to the point that today there are numerous styles of Yoga.

No matter how many styles there are they have similarities to the basic yoga practice. Many new practitioners become confused by the numerous yoga styles because experienced followers of Yoga believe that their form of Yoga is the original Yoga or the best style.


We will answer the most frequently asked questions about Yoga in this article.


What is Yoga?


This is the most common question asked especially from new students. Most people have a vague idea of what Yoga is about. Some ask if Yoga is an exercise.

Others believe that Yoga is a philosophy. Many think it is physical therapy or a spiritual practice. All of these questions can be answered "Yes." Yoga is a part of all of these things.


Yoga can be described as a discipline of low-impact static exercises and poses that work together to strengthen and increase flexibility.

As Yoga poses stretch parts of the body, the body parts experience an increase in blood flow and a release of energy. Tension is released from certain parts of the body where tension is never given the opportunity to be released through regular activities.


Mental and spiritual elements are also enhanced because of the slow movements and correct breathing used during Yoga exercises. Not only is the body strengthened but the mind and spirit benefit as well.



Do I need to be a religious person in order to practice Yoga?

Yoga is many things to many people as discussed before. Some people practice Yoga for its spiritual benefits alone. Others perform Yoga for its physical benefits of strengthening and flexibility.

Since Yoga has benefits for the mind, body and spirit, staying open to all of its benefits can be a major benefit for all areas of life. Yoga is a good place to start developing the spiritual part of you if you have never explored this part of your life.


Yoga is an excellent way to increase a feeling of peace and self-confidence.



Where can I practice Yoga?

You can practice Yoga anywhere.

People practice Yoga in the privacy of their homes. Others love sharing their Yoga time with friends in an outdoor setting such as a park or the beach. Inquire about Yoga classes at a gym near you. A class is one of the best ways to start the practice and learn the correct exercises, poses and breathing.


Some community-based organizations teach free Yoga classes to anyone who wants to learn. One advantage to learning Yoga is there is no equipment necessary. That alone saves money and space. You may want to use a pillow to support the body during some poses, but that is all the equipment needed.

A Yoga mat and clothing are optional.



I am overweight and unfit. Can I still practice Yoga?

Yes, you can. Yoga poses and exercises range from very easy to more advanced levels. You will gradually become strong and flexible enough to advance from very easy moves to the more complex moves.

The slow and static movements of Yoga can be easily practiced by nearly everyone from preschoolers to senior citizens.



In Conclusion

Now that you understand Yoga better you will agree that Yoga is something you may want to explore further. It is a mental, physical and spiritual practice that can be done anywhere and as much as you like. This makes Yoga one of the most popular disciplines in the world.



What Is Yoga Anyway? By Daniel Anderson



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