Meditation is an important aspect of yoga that can strengthen the union of your mind, body and spirit. Meditation provides you with an opportunity to sit still, clear your mind of all thoughts and fully relax your body.The practice of meditation may also help you develop a sense of spiritual strength and peacefulness. Although meditation involves a spiritual element, yoga is not a religion.You should meditate every day, starting with 5 minute sessions and working up to 20 or 30 minutes.
MEDITATION TECHNIQUES
Preparing for MeditationTo help you stay focused as you meditate, you should create an environment that is quiet and free from distractions. Also, try to practice at the same time every day, which can help you make your meditation practice a habit.
The position in which you sit isalso important for helping you stay focused during your meditation practice. Sit cross-legged, always making sure your spine is upright and straight. You can either sit on the floor, on a straight-backedchair or on a meditation cushion. A meditation cushion is a pillow that is designedto help you sit straight and comfortably as you meditate.
You can meditate with your eyes closed or open, whichever you find helps you stay focused. Just make sure that youreyes remain relaxed at all times.
Follow Your BreathFocusing on your breath can help you meditate. If you find your mind wanders while meditating, try to bring your attention back to your breath.It may also be helpful to use techniques that remind you to follow your breath. For example, you can mentally say “inhale“ on each inhalation and “exhale” on each exhalation. You could alsocount your breaths by mentally saying “inhale one, exhale two…“ and so on.
Use a Mantra A mantra is a meditation technique in which you repeat a word, such as“love,“ “peace,“ or “om“ as you meditate. You can either repeat the word aloud or silently in your mind
Showing posts with label Yoga Introduction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Yoga Introduction. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Yoga and Relaxation
Yoga attracts many people as a means of relaxation. Common methods of relaxing, such as watching television or chatting with friends, serve more asa distraction than a means of achieving complete relaxation. Yoga teaches your body and mind to relax completely by consciously releasing both physical and mental tension. You can achieve this relaxation through the practice of yoga poses,breath awareness and relaxation techniques. In fact, relaxation is so important in yoga that a portion of every practice should be entirely devoted to relaxation.
TYPES OF RELAXATION
Physical Relaxation
Yoga poses are extremely beneficial for relaxing your body. As you stretch and move your body in a yoga practice, you can release tension from your muscles, allowing them to relax.Yoga allows you to connect with your body and become aware of any tension that may be present. Through your yoga practice, you can focus on relaxing any areas that may require attention.
Mental Relaxation
Yoga provides you with an opportunity to set aside time each day to allow your mind to relax and unwind. By taking time each day to practice yoga, you can help prevent your mind from becoming overwhelmed and fatigued. The practice of breath awareness is especially useful for relaxing your mind. For more information on breath awareness.
Spiritual Relaxation
Once you achieve physical and mental relaxation, spiritual relaxation is also possible. Spiritual relaxation brings a feeling of inner peace and contentment. This type of relaxation also promotes a sense of inner awareness, which can help put you in touch with yourself and those around you.
TYPES OF RELAXATION
Physical Relaxation
Yoga poses are extremely beneficial for relaxing your body. As you stretch and move your body in a yoga practice, you can release tension from your muscles, allowing them to relax.Yoga allows you to connect with your body and become aware of any tension that may be present. Through your yoga practice, you can focus on relaxing any areas that may require attention.
Mental Relaxation
Yoga provides you with an opportunity to set aside time each day to allow your mind to relax and unwind. By taking time each day to practice yoga, you can help prevent your mind from becoming overwhelmed and fatigued. The practice of breath awareness is especially useful for relaxing your mind. For more information on breath awareness.
Spiritual Relaxation
Once you achieve physical and mental relaxation, spiritual relaxation is also possible. Spiritual relaxation brings a feeling of inner peace and contentment. This type of relaxation also promotes a sense of inner awareness, which can help put you in touch with yourself and those around you.
Yoga environment
Creating a yoga environment
If you would like to practice yoga on your own, you can create a yoga environment in your home. Once you create a yoga environment, you can begin practicing yoga with the aid of books,videos and audio recordings. You may want to practice yoga with a qualified yoga teacher to ensure that you understand the basics before practicing on your own.
What time of day should I practice yoga?You can practice yoga at any time in the day when you feel you need to. Performing an active yoga practice in the morning can energize your mind and body, which can help set the tone for how you feel the rest of the day. You may want to perform a less active practice in the evening to help calm your mind and body after a long day and prepare yourself for sleep. Try to set a specific time each day, or as often in the week as possible, to practice yoga so your practice will become a habit.
Where should I practice?When practicing at home, you should create an area specifically for yoga and meditation. Make sure there is plenty of sunlight and that the area is clean and tidy. Also, make sure you do not have any distractions while you practice yoga.
Should I be concerned about the air quality?
Yes. If possible, you should open a window to allow fresh air to come in. Fresh air is especially beneficial for your breathing, which is integral to yoga. Also, make sure the air is not polluted with burning incense, smoke or any other type of air pollution.
How else should I prepare my yoga environment?Make sure every prop you need for your practice, such as a yoga mat, blankets and blocks, are in the area before you begin. This preparation prevents you from having to run around the house looking for a different prop before you perform each pose.
If you would like to practice yoga on your own, you can create a yoga environment in your home. Once you create a yoga environment, you can begin practicing yoga with the aid of books,videos and audio recordings. You may want to practice yoga with a qualified yoga teacher to ensure that you understand the basics before practicing on your own.
What time of day should I practice yoga?You can practice yoga at any time in the day when you feel you need to. Performing an active yoga practice in the morning can energize your mind and body, which can help set the tone for how you feel the rest of the day. You may want to perform a less active practice in the evening to help calm your mind and body after a long day and prepare yourself for sleep. Try to set a specific time each day, or as often in the week as possible, to practice yoga so your practice will become a habit.
Where should I practice?When practicing at home, you should create an area specifically for yoga and meditation. Make sure there is plenty of sunlight and that the area is clean and tidy. Also, make sure you do not have any distractions while you practice yoga.
Should I be concerned about the air quality?
Yes. If possible, you should open a window to allow fresh air to come in. Fresh air is especially beneficial for your breathing, which is integral to yoga. Also, make sure the air is not polluted with burning incense, smoke or any other type of air pollution.
How else should I prepare my yoga environment?Make sure every prop you need for your practice, such as a yoga mat, blankets and blocks, are in the area before you begin. This preparation prevents you from having to run around the house looking for a different prop before you perform each pose.
Yoga clothes and props
YOGA CLOTHES
You should wear clothes that are comfortable and allow you to move and breathe freely when practicing yoga. Wearing flexible clothing is the best option, such as a leotard, leggings or bicycle shorts, because your clothing will not move or get in your way. You can also wear a T-shirt and gym shorts if you feel more comfortable. You may want to layer your clothing so you can take layers off as you warm up and put layers back on as you cool down.Yoga is best practiced barefoot. When you are barefoot, you are better able to feel the floor beneath your feet. Wearing socks may cause you to slip.
YOGA PROPS
Yoga MatA yoga mat, also called a sticky mat, is a thin, rectangular rubber mat that helps keep you from sliding on the floor as you move into various is the appropriate texture. If you practice on a surface that is too soft, such as carpet, you may find it difficult to balance or position yourself correctly. If you try to practice on a hard surface, such as hardwood, some poses may be too uncomfortable for your hands, knees or feet.
BlanketsKeep a few large wool or cotton blankets nearby when practicing yoga. A folded blanket can protect your knees when kneeling. You can also use folded blankets to provide support for your body, such as placing a blanket under your head in a lying pose
Yoga Strap
A yoga strap is a long cotton band, which may or may not have a buckle, and is usually 11/ inches wide and 6 feet long.The yoga strap is a useful aid when you cannot reach a part of your body with your hands. If you do not have a yoga strap, you can use any soft cloth or belt, such as a bathrobe belt.
Chair
You may need to use a sturdy chair with a back and a flat seat when performing some standing poses orseated chair poses. Youshould use an armless chair for seated chair poses.
Wall
You can use a wall to help you maintain correct posture, alignment or balance in a yoga pose. Walls are particularly helpful for poses such as standing balancing poses.
Blocks
Blocks are usually 4 x 6 x 9 inches in size and made of either foam or wood. For your yoga practice, you will most likely find two blocks useful. If you do not havea block, you can create your own block by wrapping a hardcover book with tape.Blocks are helpful when your hands cannot reach down to the floor, such as in a standing twist.You can place any end of the block on the floor to achieve the height you need, but make sure the block is steady. Do not clutch the block, butonly rest your hand on it to keep your balance.
Bolsters
Bolsters are cylindrical or rectangular pillowsthat measure approximately 8 inches high and 26 inches long. They are usually covered with canvas or cotton and stuffed with cotton batting to make them firm. Bolsters are useful if you need a firm surface to prop up or rest your body on. If you do not have a bolster, you can roll up a blanket, stack folded blankets or use a firm sofa or bed pillow.
Eye Bag
An eye bag is a small cloth bag usually filled with flax seeds. Covering your eyes with an eye bag during a relaxation pose helps relax your eyes and face and block the light. If you do not have an eye bag, use a folded washcloth or silk scarf as a substitute.
You should wear clothes that are comfortable and allow you to move and breathe freely when practicing yoga. Wearing flexible clothing is the best option, such as a leotard, leggings or bicycle shorts, because your clothing will not move or get in your way. You can also wear a T-shirt and gym shorts if you feel more comfortable. You may want to layer your clothing so you can take layers off as you warm up and put layers back on as you cool down.Yoga is best practiced barefoot. When you are barefoot, you are better able to feel the floor beneath your feet. Wearing socks may cause you to slip.
YOGA PROPS
Yoga MatA yoga mat, also called a sticky mat, is a thin, rectangular rubber mat that helps keep you from sliding on the floor as you move into various is the appropriate texture. If you practice on a surface that is too soft, such as carpet, you may find it difficult to balance or position yourself correctly. If you try to practice on a hard surface, such as hardwood, some poses may be too uncomfortable for your hands, knees or feet.
BlanketsKeep a few large wool or cotton blankets nearby when practicing yoga. A folded blanket can protect your knees when kneeling. You can also use folded blankets to provide support for your body, such as placing a blanket under your head in a lying pose
Yoga Strap
A yoga strap is a long cotton band, which may or may not have a buckle, and is usually 11/ inches wide and 6 feet long.The yoga strap is a useful aid when you cannot reach a part of your body with your hands. If you do not have a yoga strap, you can use any soft cloth or belt, such as a bathrobe belt.
Chair
You may need to use a sturdy chair with a back and a flat seat when performing some standing poses orseated chair poses. Youshould use an armless chair for seated chair poses.
Wall
You can use a wall to help you maintain correct posture, alignment or balance in a yoga pose. Walls are particularly helpful for poses such as standing balancing poses.
Blocks
Blocks are usually 4 x 6 x 9 inches in size and made of either foam or wood. For your yoga practice, you will most likely find two blocks useful. If you do not havea block, you can create your own block by wrapping a hardcover book with tape.Blocks are helpful when your hands cannot reach down to the floor, such as in a standing twist.You can place any end of the block on the floor to achieve the height you need, but make sure the block is steady. Do not clutch the block, butonly rest your hand on it to keep your balance.
Bolsters
Bolsters are cylindrical or rectangular pillowsthat measure approximately 8 inches high and 26 inches long. They are usually covered with canvas or cotton and stuffed with cotton batting to make them firm. Bolsters are useful if you need a firm surface to prop up or rest your body on. If you do not have a bolster, you can roll up a blanket, stack folded blankets or use a firm sofa or bed pillow.
Eye Bag
An eye bag is a small cloth bag usually filled with flax seeds. Covering your eyes with an eye bag during a relaxation pose helps relax your eyes and face and block the light. If you do not have an eye bag, use a folded washcloth or silk scarf as a substitute.
Benefits of yoga
Yoga provides many benefits for men and women of all ages, from children to seniors.Many yoga poses can be modified for people of all different levels of fitness and flexibility, even for people with temporary or chronic physical problems. The primary goal of yoga is to unite the mind, body and spirit. This union can improve your overall mental and physical well-being.
MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL BENEFITS
Through the practice of yoga, you may find that you develop a more positive outlook on life. Practicingyoga encourages personal reflection and introspection, helping you to release any anxiety, hostility or depression you may be feeling. The peace and relaxation that yoga offers improves your mood,which in turn improves your overall well-being.
Stress Relief
One of the most recognized benefits of yoga is stress reduction. The practice of yoga poses, meditation and breathing exercises are all clinically proven methodsof relieving stress. Practicing yoga can help relieve stress by clearing your mind and bringing your attention to the present moment. Relieving stress can have a positive effect on your health, especially since medical practitioners consider stress to be the cause of many illnesses.
Improved Mental FunctionsYoga also serves as an effective tool to help improve your mental functioning. For example, you can enhance your memory and ability to concentrate through the practice of yoga. Many yoga poses can also improve your hand-eye coordination, reaction time, dexterity and fine motor skills.
Improved Self-ConfidenceYou can build greater self-confidence through the practice of yoga, especially because yoga is non- competitive. Yoga is an individual practice, which allows you to only focus on your own capabilities without comparing yourself to others. You can also improve your posture through the practice of yoga, which allows you to stand, sit and walk with confidence. Yoga can also make you feel more mentally alert, centered and content.
PHYSICAL BENEFITS
Pain ReductionYoga can provide therapeutic relief from many ailments, such as back pain, arthritis, migraine headaches and menstrual cramps. Many yoga poses can also release tension and soreness in your muscles. Practicing yoga can even help you prevent illness and injury by improving your immune system and teaching you to treat your body well. As a result, yoga can serve as preventative therapy to help you not only improve, but also maintain your health.
Improved BreathingThe practice of yoga improves your breathing by heightening your awareness of your breath and increasing your lung capacity. By focusing on deep breathing in your yoga practice, you can help to release tension from your body and make your body more alkaline and less acidic. Too much acidity in your body can be harmful for your bones and tissues, and can also cause arthritis, fatigue, headaches and depression.
Improved Strength and Flexibility
One of the most noticeable effects of yoga is that it can make your body strong and flexible, while improving the range of motion in your joints. The practice of yoga can also improve your balance, tone your muscles and increase your stamina. Some yoga poses can also help you build strong bones, which helps to prevent osteoporosis.
Additional BenefitsYoga also provides a whole host of other health benefits. Through the practice of yoga, you can regulate your metabolism, which can help you lose weight. Yoga also helps to balance your hormonal system, which is especially useful for menopausal and pre-menopausal women. In addition, the movement in some yoga poses massages the internal organs of the body, which improves certain bodily functions, such as digestion and elimination.
MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL BENEFITS
Through the practice of yoga, you may find that you develop a more positive outlook on life. Practicingyoga encourages personal reflection and introspection, helping you to release any anxiety, hostility or depression you may be feeling. The peace and relaxation that yoga offers improves your mood,which in turn improves your overall well-being.
Stress Relief
One of the most recognized benefits of yoga is stress reduction. The practice of yoga poses, meditation and breathing exercises are all clinically proven methodsof relieving stress. Practicing yoga can help relieve stress by clearing your mind and bringing your attention to the present moment. Relieving stress can have a positive effect on your health, especially since medical practitioners consider stress to be the cause of many illnesses.
Improved Mental FunctionsYoga also serves as an effective tool to help improve your mental functioning. For example, you can enhance your memory and ability to concentrate through the practice of yoga. Many yoga poses can also improve your hand-eye coordination, reaction time, dexterity and fine motor skills.
Improved Self-ConfidenceYou can build greater self-confidence through the practice of yoga, especially because yoga is non- competitive. Yoga is an individual practice, which allows you to only focus on your own capabilities without comparing yourself to others. You can also improve your posture through the practice of yoga, which allows you to stand, sit and walk with confidence. Yoga can also make you feel more mentally alert, centered and content.
PHYSICAL BENEFITS
Pain ReductionYoga can provide therapeutic relief from many ailments, such as back pain, arthritis, migraine headaches and menstrual cramps. Many yoga poses can also release tension and soreness in your muscles. Practicing yoga can even help you prevent illness and injury by improving your immune system and teaching you to treat your body well. As a result, yoga can serve as preventative therapy to help you not only improve, but also maintain your health.
Improved BreathingThe practice of yoga improves your breathing by heightening your awareness of your breath and increasing your lung capacity. By focusing on deep breathing in your yoga practice, you can help to release tension from your body and make your body more alkaline and less acidic. Too much acidity in your body can be harmful for your bones and tissues, and can also cause arthritis, fatigue, headaches and depression.
Improved Strength and Flexibility
One of the most noticeable effects of yoga is that it can make your body strong and flexible, while improving the range of motion in your joints. The practice of yoga can also improve your balance, tone your muscles and increase your stamina. Some yoga poses can also help you build strong bones, which helps to prevent osteoporosis.
Additional BenefitsYoga also provides a whole host of other health benefits. Through the practice of yoga, you can regulate your metabolism, which can help you lose weight. Yoga also helps to balance your hormonal system, which is especially useful for menopausal and pre-menopausal women. In addition, the movement in some yoga poses massages the internal organs of the body, which improves certain bodily functions, such as digestion and elimination.
Types of yoga
Types of yoga
There are seven main types of yoga. Although each type of yoga helps unite your mind, body and spirit, each has a slightly different focus.
Hatha Yoga
We focuses on Hatha Yoga, which is the yoga of physical discipline. Hatha Yoga is the most commonly practiced type of yoga in the western world. The goal of Hatha Yoga is to achieve union of the mind, body and spirit through physical actions. Hatha Yoga promotes taking care of your body to be healthy.The word “Hatha” is derived from two Sanskrit words –– ”ha” meaning ”sun” and ”tha” meaning”moon.” The practice of Hatha Yoga finds a balance between your sun and moon traits and balances the opposites within you –– from the right and left sides of your brain to the masculine and feminine sides of your personality.The benefits of practicing Hatha Yoga may be felt immediately. Your body may become more relaxed and your mind may become clearer after just one practice. Some other benefits may occur with regular practice of Hatha Yoga, such as increased strength and proper posture.
Bhakti Yoga
Bhakti Yoga is the yoga of devotion and selfless love. Bhakti is derived from the Sanskrit word”bhaj,” which means “to serve.” Practicing Bhakti Yoga involves devotion to a divine being, usually through practices such as singing, dancing, chanting and praying. Individuals who practice Bhakti Yoga also express this devotion and love in everyday life.
Karma Yoga
The main principle behind Karma Yoga is performing selfless service, without expecting to gain anything from the service. The service should be performed with honesty and integrity. An example of Karma Yoga is volunteering in your community to help others who are less fortunate. Tantra YogaTantra Yoga uses breath and movement to awaken the spiritual energy in your body.Two popular forms of Tantra Yoga are KundaliniYoga and Kriya Yoga.
Jnana Yoga
Jnana Yoga is the yoga of wisdom. In Sanskrit, the word ”Jnana” means “knowledge,” “insight,” or “wisdom.” One of the main principles of Jnana Yoga is to learn the distinction between what is real and unreal. Jnana Yoga also encourages humans to think of themselves as spiritual beings, who can reach enlightenment through willpower, study and reason.
Tantra Yoga
Tantra Yoga uses breath and movement to awaken the spiritual energy in your body.Two popular forms of Tantra Yoga are KundaliniYoga and Kriya Yoga.
Raja Yoga
Raja Yoga, ”raja” meaning ”royal,” is a classical type of yoga, in which meditation teaches your mind to serve your spirit.The foundation of Raja Yoga is based on eight limbs.
These limbs include:
1.Yama (Moral and Ethical Discipline)
2.Niyama(Self-discipline)
3.Asana(Poses)
4.Pranayama(Breath Control)
5.Pratyahara(Sensory Inhibition)
6.Dharana(Concentration)
7.Dhyana(Meditation)
8.Samadhi(Enlightenment)
Mantra Yoga
Mantra Yoga uses sound to heal your body and center and focus your mind. A mantra is a meditation technique in which you repeat a word aloud or silently in your mind. The ost traditional mantra used is the word ”om.”
There are seven main types of yoga. Although each type of yoga helps unite your mind, body and spirit, each has a slightly different focus.
Hatha Yoga
We focuses on Hatha Yoga, which is the yoga of physical discipline. Hatha Yoga is the most commonly practiced type of yoga in the western world. The goal of Hatha Yoga is to achieve union of the mind, body and spirit through physical actions. Hatha Yoga promotes taking care of your body to be healthy.The word “Hatha” is derived from two Sanskrit words –– ”ha” meaning ”sun” and ”tha” meaning”moon.” The practice of Hatha Yoga finds a balance between your sun and moon traits and balances the opposites within you –– from the right and left sides of your brain to the masculine and feminine sides of your personality.The benefits of practicing Hatha Yoga may be felt immediately. Your body may become more relaxed and your mind may become clearer after just one practice. Some other benefits may occur with regular practice of Hatha Yoga, such as increased strength and proper posture.
Bhakti Yoga
Bhakti Yoga is the yoga of devotion and selfless love. Bhakti is derived from the Sanskrit word”bhaj,” which means “to serve.” Practicing Bhakti Yoga involves devotion to a divine being, usually through practices such as singing, dancing, chanting and praying. Individuals who practice Bhakti Yoga also express this devotion and love in everyday life.
Karma Yoga
The main principle behind Karma Yoga is performing selfless service, without expecting to gain anything from the service. The service should be performed with honesty and integrity. An example of Karma Yoga is volunteering in your community to help others who are less fortunate. Tantra YogaTantra Yoga uses breath and movement to awaken the spiritual energy in your body.Two popular forms of Tantra Yoga are KundaliniYoga and Kriya Yoga.
Jnana Yoga
Jnana Yoga is the yoga of wisdom. In Sanskrit, the word ”Jnana” means “knowledge,” “insight,” or “wisdom.” One of the main principles of Jnana Yoga is to learn the distinction between what is real and unreal. Jnana Yoga also encourages humans to think of themselves as spiritual beings, who can reach enlightenment through willpower, study and reason.
Tantra Yoga
Tantra Yoga uses breath and movement to awaken the spiritual energy in your body.Two popular forms of Tantra Yoga are KundaliniYoga and Kriya Yoga.
Raja Yoga
Raja Yoga, ”raja” meaning ”royal,” is a classical type of yoga, in which meditation teaches your mind to serve your spirit.The foundation of Raja Yoga is based on eight limbs.
These limbs include:
1.Yama (Moral and Ethical Discipline)
2.Niyama(Self-discipline)
3.Asana(Poses)
4.Pranayama(Breath Control)
5.Pratyahara(Sensory Inhibition)
6.Dharana(Concentration)
7.Dhyana(Meditation)
8.Samadhi(Enlightenment)
Mantra Yoga
Mantra Yoga uses sound to heal your body and center and focus your mind. A mantra is a meditation technique in which you repeat a word aloud or silently in your mind. The ost traditional mantra used is the word ”om.”
How did Yoga begin?
Yoga originated in northern India more than 5,000 years ago. Archaeologists have found statuettes of men in yoga poses that are estimated to be 5,000 years old. Developed by the ancient sages of India, yoga was not written down for many thousands of years, but instead passed down from teacher tostudent. Approximately 2,000 years ago, a philosopher named Patanjali began to organize and write down the principles of yoga. Patanjali's collection of yoga’s principles is known as Yoga Sutras. Many people consider Patanjali to be the father of yoga.
What does “Yoga” mean?
The word “yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit word”yuj,” which means ”to unify” or ”to yoke.”
This origin of the word ”yoga” and the practice of yoga are closely related, since practicing yoga involves seeking to ”unite” your body, mind and spirit. Achieving this union allows you to connectwith your inner self, leading to a sense of contentment and tranquility.
This origin of the word ”yoga” and the practice of yoga are closely related, since practicing yoga involves seeking to ”unite” your body, mind and spirit. Achieving this union allows you to connectwith your inner self, leading to a sense of contentment and tranquility.
Why should I practice Yoga?
Yoga provides a balanced and wholesome approach to achieving good physical and mental health. To begin with, yoga is easieron your body than many other fitness activities, such as high-impact aerobics.Also, unlike many other forms of exercise, yoga addressesall aspects of your health and well-being. Breathing exercises can help you learn to breathe more efficiently. Meditation can clear your mind and help you stay calm. Yoga poses can provide many physical benefits, such as increasingyour flexibility and improving your circulation.
Yoga also has mental and emotional benefits. For example, yoga can help improve your concentration, as well as soothe and rejuvenate your mind.
Yoga is increasingly being recognized for its value in preventing and relieving physical ailments, such as chronic back pain, arthritis and migraines.
and dancers can perform strengthening practices to restore their energy andimprove their stamina. Children can practice yoga to improve their attention span and concentration. Seniors canalso practice yoga to feel strong and improve their flexibility.
Yoga also has mental and emotional benefits. For example, yoga can help improve your concentration, as well as soothe and rejuvenate your mind.
Yoga is increasingly being recognized for its value in preventing and relieving physical ailments, such as chronic back pain, arthritis and migraines.
and dancers can perform strengthening practices to restore their energy andimprove their stamina. Children can practice yoga to improve their attention span and concentration. Seniors canalso practice yoga to feel strong and improve their flexibility.
Who can practice Yoga?
Anyone can practice yoga, regardless of age or fitness level. Ifyou have a physical limitation, youcan modify yoga to meet your needs. For instance, people with limited mobility can perform yoga while sitting in a chair.
What is Yoga?
Yoga focuses on improving your physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The goal of yoga is to harmonize your body, mind and spirit through a combination of poses, meditation and breathing exercises. Unifying your body, mind and spirit allows you to achieve a sense of wholeness, peace and self-realization.In addition to achieving inner peace, practicing yoga has many physical and mental benefits. For example, the physical exercise involved in yoga can increase your strength and flexibility. Yoga is also a very effective tool for relieving stress, calming your mind and allowing you to achieve complete physical and mental relaxation.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Yoga Practice - Most Common Types
There are different types of yoga and there are varied reasons why people learn the practice of yoga. Yoga is a Hindu discipline that promotes spiritual unity with a Supreme Being through a system of rituals and body postures. Following is a short list of the most common Yoga practices you may hear about.
Most Common Types of Yoga
• Ananda: This type is perfect for beginners as it does not require a lot of strength or flexibility neither involves any type of chanting. The movements are very simple.
• Kundalini: This was the first type of Yoga to be 'westernized' and involves intense breathing. It is designed to release energy throughout the whole body.
• Bikram: Intensely physical and practiced in a heated 100 degree temperature room for muscle flexibility. Use caution with the repeated 26 poses and breathing exercises.
• Astanga: Also called 'power yoga', demands flexibility, stamina, and strength for moving continuously from one posture to another without interruption.
• Kripalu: More of a meditative type with emphasis on body alignment in conjunction with coordination of breath and body movement.
• Integral: Postures are very simple and are meant to be easily modified to fit the practitioner's flexibility limits to prevent injury. Easily learned by beginners.
•Anasura: A newer form of yoga with emphasis on spiritual elements and the focus on the body posture alignment.
• Iyengar: Allows the use of body props such as foam blocks, pillows, and stretching cords to help with the proper alignment of the body.
Understandably so, Yoga is not for everyone. These are just a few of the most common types of Yoga being practiced today. This short list may just inspire you to look more into the practice of Yoga to suit your physical and/or spiritual fitness goals.
Krystalina Soash is a freelance writer specializing in article writing in the self-improvement field and living a fulfilling life. You may visit her at http://writingforyounow.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Krystalina_Soash
Most Common Types of Yoga
• Ananda: This type is perfect for beginners as it does not require a lot of strength or flexibility neither involves any type of chanting. The movements are very simple.
• Kundalini: This was the first type of Yoga to be 'westernized' and involves intense breathing. It is designed to release energy throughout the whole body.
• Bikram: Intensely physical and practiced in a heated 100 degree temperature room for muscle flexibility. Use caution with the repeated 26 poses and breathing exercises.
• Astanga: Also called 'power yoga', demands flexibility, stamina, and strength for moving continuously from one posture to another without interruption.
• Kripalu: More of a meditative type with emphasis on body alignment in conjunction with coordination of breath and body movement.
• Integral: Postures are very simple and are meant to be easily modified to fit the practitioner's flexibility limits to prevent injury. Easily learned by beginners.
•Anasura: A newer form of yoga with emphasis on spiritual elements and the focus on the body posture alignment.
• Iyengar: Allows the use of body props such as foam blocks, pillows, and stretching cords to help with the proper alignment of the body.
Understandably so, Yoga is not for everyone. These are just a few of the most common types of Yoga being practiced today. This short list may just inspire you to look more into the practice of Yoga to suit your physical and/or spiritual fitness goals.
Krystalina Soash is a freelance writer specializing in article writing in the self-improvement field and living a fulfilling life. You may visit her at http://writingforyounow.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Krystalina_Soash
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In Indian philosophy, Yoga is the name of one of the six orthodox philosophical schools.The Yoga philosophical system is closely allied with the Samkhya school.The Yoga school as expounded by the sage Patanjali accepts the Samkhya psychology and metaphysics, but is more theistic than the Samkhya, as evidenced by the addition of a divine entity to the Samkhya's twenty-five elements of reality.The parallels between Yoga and Samkhya were so close that Max M?ller says that "the two philosophies were in popular parlance distinguished from each other as Samkhya with and Samkhya without a Lord...."The intimate relationship between Samkhya and Yoga is explained by Heinrich Zimmer:
Patanjali is widely regarded as the founder of the formal Yoga philosophy. Patanjali's yoga is known as Raja yoga, which is a system for control of the mind. Patanjali defines the word "yoga" in his second sutra, which is the definitional sutra for his entire work:
This terse definition hinges on the meaning of three Sanskrit terms. I. K. Taimni translates it as "Yoga is the inhibition (nirodha?) of the modifications (v?tti) of the mind (citta)". The use of the word nirodha? in the opening definition of yoga is an example of the important role that Buddhist technical terminology and concepts play in the Yoga Sutra; this role suggests that Patanjali was aware of Buddhist ideas and wove them into his system. Swami Vivekananda translates the sutra as "Yoga is restraining the mind-stuff (Citta) from taking various forms (Vrittis)."Patanjali's writing also became the basis for a system referred to as "Ashtanga Yoga" ("Eight-Limbed Yoga"). This eight-limbed concept derived from the 29th Sutra of the 2nd book, and is a core characteristic of practically every Raja yoga variation taught today. The Eight Limbs are:
Yama (The five "abstentions"): non-violence, non-lying, non-covetousness, non-sensuality, and non-possessiveness. Niyama (The five "observances"): purity, contentment, austerity, study, and surrender to god. Asana: Literally means "seat", and in Patanjali's Sutras refers to the seated position used for meditation. Pranayama ("Suspending Breath"): Pr?na, breath, "?y?ma", to restrain or stop. Also interpreted as control of the life force. Pratyahara ("Abstraction"): Withdrawal of the sense organs from external objects. Dharana ("Concentration"): Fixing the attention on a single object. Dhyana ("Meditation"): Intense contemplation of the nature of the object of meditation. Sam?dhi ("Liberation"): merging consciousness with the object of meditation. In the view of this school, the highest attainment does not reveal the experienced diversity of the world to be illusion. The everyday world is real. Furthermore, the highest attainment is the event of one of many individual selves discovering itself; there is no single universal self shared by all persons.---
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In Indian philosophy, Yoga is the name of one of the six orthodox philosophical schools.The Yoga philosophical system is closely allied with the Samkhya school.The Yoga school as expounded by the sage Patanjali accepts the Samkhya psychology and metaphysics, but is more theistic than the Samkhya, as evidenced by the addition of a divine entity to the Samkhya's twenty-five elements of reality.The parallels between Yoga and Samkhya were so close that Max M?ller says that "the two philosophies were in popular parlance distinguished from each other as Samkhya with and Samkhya without a Lord...."The intimate relationship between Samkhya and Yoga is explained by Heinrich Zimmer:
Patanjali is widely regarded as the founder of the formal Yoga philosophy. Patanjali's yoga is known as Raja yoga, which is a system for control of the mind. Patanjali defines the word "yoga" in his second sutra, which is the definitional sutra for his entire work:
This terse definition hinges on the meaning of three Sanskrit terms. I. K. Taimni translates it as "Yoga is the inhibition (nirodha?) of the modifications (v?tti) of the mind (citta)". The use of the word nirodha? in the opening definition of yoga is an example of the important role that Buddhist technical terminology and concepts play in the Yoga Sutra; this role suggests that Patanjali was aware of Buddhist ideas and wove them into his system. Swami Vivekananda translates the sutra as "Yoga is restraining the mind-stuff (Citta) from taking various forms (Vrittis)."Patanjali's writing also became the basis for a system referred to as "Ashtanga Yoga" ("Eight-Limbed Yoga"). This eight-limbed concept derived from the 29th Sutra of the 2nd book, and is a core characteristic of practically every Raja yoga variation taught today. The Eight Limbs are:
Yama (The five "abstentions"): non-violence, non-lying, non-covetousness, non-sensuality, and non-possessiveness. Niyama (The five "observances"): purity, contentment, austerity, study, and surrender to god. Asana: Literally means "seat", and in Patanjali's Sutras refers to the seated position used for meditation. Pranayama ("Suspending Breath"): Pr?na, breath, "?y?ma", to restrain or stop. Also interpreted as control of the life force. Pratyahara ("Abstraction"): Withdrawal of the sense organs from external objects. Dharana ("Concentration"): Fixing the attention on a single object. Dhyana ("Meditation"): Intense contemplation of the nature of the object of meditation. Sam?dhi ("Liberation"): merging consciousness with the object of meditation. In the view of this school, the highest attainment does not reveal the experienced diversity of the world to be illusion. The everyday world is real. Furthermore, the highest attainment is the event of one of many individual selves discovering itself; there is no single universal self shared by all persons.---
History of yoga
History of yoga
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Vedic Samhitas contain references to ascetics, while ascetic practices (tapas) are referenced in the Br?hma?as (900 to 500 BCE), early commentaries on the Vedas. Several seals discovered at Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300–1700 B.C.E.) sites depict figures in positions resembling a common yoga or meditation pose, showing "a form of ritual discipline, suggesting a precursor of yoga", according to archaeologist Gregory Possehl.Some type of connection between the Indus Valley seals and later yoga and meditation practices is speculated upon by many scholars, though there is no conclusive evidence.
Techniques for experiencing higher states of consciousness in meditation were developed by the shramanic traditions and in the Upanishadic tradition.
While there is no convincing evidence for meditation pre-Buddhist early Brahminic texts, Wynne argues that formless meditation originated in the Brahminic tradition, based on strong parallels between Upanishadic cosmological statements and the meditative goals of the two teachers of the Buddha as recorded in the early Buddhist texts.He mentions less likely possibilities as well.Having argued that the cosmological statements in the Upanishads also reflect a contemplative tradition, he argues that the Nasadiya Sukta contains evidence for a contemplative tradition, even as early as the late Rg Vedic period.
The Buddhist texts are probably the earliest texts describing meditation techniques.They describe meditative practices and states which had existed before the Buddha as well as those which were first developed within Buddhism.In Hindu literature, the term "yoga" first occurs in the Katha Upanishad, where it refers to control of the senses and the cessation of mental activity leading to a supreme state.Important textual sources for the evolving concept of Yoga are the middle Upanishads, (ca. 400 BCE), the Mahabharata including the Bhagavad Gita (ca. 200 BCE), and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (150 BCE).
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Vedic Samhitas contain references to ascetics, while ascetic practices (tapas) are referenced in the Br?hma?as (900 to 500 BCE), early commentaries on the Vedas. Several seals discovered at Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300–1700 B.C.E.) sites depict figures in positions resembling a common yoga or meditation pose, showing "a form of ritual discipline, suggesting a precursor of yoga", according to archaeologist Gregory Possehl.Some type of connection between the Indus Valley seals and later yoga and meditation practices is speculated upon by many scholars, though there is no conclusive evidence.
Techniques for experiencing higher states of consciousness in meditation were developed by the shramanic traditions and in the Upanishadic tradition.
While there is no convincing evidence for meditation pre-Buddhist early Brahminic texts, Wynne argues that formless meditation originated in the Brahminic tradition, based on strong parallels between Upanishadic cosmological statements and the meditative goals of the two teachers of the Buddha as recorded in the early Buddhist texts.He mentions less likely possibilities as well.Having argued that the cosmological statements in the Upanishads also reflect a contemplative tradition, he argues that the Nasadiya Sukta contains evidence for a contemplative tradition, even as early as the late Rg Vedic period.
The Buddhist texts are probably the earliest texts describing meditation techniques.They describe meditative practices and states which had existed before the Buddha as well as those which were first developed within Buddhism.In Hindu literature, the term "yoga" first occurs in the Katha Upanishad, where it refers to control of the senses and the cessation of mental activity leading to a supreme state.Important textual sources for the evolving concept of Yoga are the middle Upanishads, (ca. 400 BCE), the Mahabharata including the Bhagavad Gita (ca. 200 BCE), and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (150 BCE).
Yoga
Yoga From Wikipedia,
the free encyclopedia
Yoga (Sanskrit, P?li: ??? y?ga) refers to traditional physical and mental disciplines originating in India.The word is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.In Hinduism, it also refers to one of the six orthodox (?stika) schools of Hindu philosophy, and to the goal toward which that school directs its practices. In Jainism it refers to the sum total of all activities—mental, verbal and physical.
Major branches of yoga in Hindu philosophy include Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Hatha Yoga.Raja Yoga, compiled in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and known simply as yoga in the context of Hindu philosophy, is part of the Samkhya tradition.Many other Hindu texts discuss aspects of yoga, including Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Shiva Samhita and various Tantras.
The Sanskrit word yoga has many meanings,and is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning "to control", "to yoke" or "to unite".Translations include "joining", "uniting", "union", "conjunction", and "means".Outside India, the term yoga is typically associated with Hatha Yoga and its asanas (postures) or as a form of exercise. Someone who practices yoga or follows the yoga philosophy is called a Yogi.
Ashtanga Yoga
The goal of yoga
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The goal of yoga may range from improving health to achieving Moksha.Within Jainism and the monist schools of Advaita Vedanta and Shaivism the goal of yoga takes the form of Moksha, which is liberation from all worldly suffering and the cycle of birth and death (Samsara), at which point there is a realisation of identity with the Supreme Brahman. In the Mahabharata, the goal of yoga is variously described as entering the world of Brahma, as Brahman, or as perceiving the Brahman or Atman that pervades all things. For the bhakti schools of Vaishnavism, bhakti or service to Svayam bhagavan itself may be the ultimate goal of the yoga process, where the goal is to enjoy an eternal relationship with Vishnu.
Yoga Classes For Yoga Beginners
Yoga is fast becoming the most popular fitness activity in this recession period. People affected by the current economy are looking to yoga classes for fast relief of their stressful conditions. It is no wonder then that yoga studios are doing a brisk business in accepting more and more yoga beginners into their programs.
Before you embark on a 'yoga for beginners' program, be aware of your fitness level, health condition and physical limitations. Let the yoga instructor know of your condition because he or she is able to offer corrections and make modifications if you are not doing the yoga poses correctly. The instructor is also able to help you in getting a deeper experience from a yoga pose so that you will gain more results.
The great thing about yoga is that unlike any other sport or fitness program, you are not competing with any other participants but yourself. You are only concentrating on your own body and listening to it as it responds to the challenges you are putting it through. Your body will communicate with you through feelings of pain or pleasure, and you respond to this feedback from your body by doing the yoga postures correctly.
Breathing is an important element in yoga as it corresponds with each pose or posture. As a beginner you need to practice the art of breathing correctly as it helps you to get relaxed and move you deeper into each pose for a positive experience. You can actually direct your breathing to any spot on your body where there is tension and feel the effects as the feelings of tension is being released.
It is important too that you do not eat a heavy meal before the commencement of each yoga session. However, water is essential to keep yourself from being dehydrated.
If you are excited about learning yoga but are not able to find a class in your area, you may want to get your hands on an instructional yoga DVD which is widely available on the internet. The great thing about these yoga DVDs is that they come with online support so you will have assistance should you have questions later.
I have known of a group of women who pooled their resources together to purchase a set of yoga DVDs and conduct a yoga session for themselves every weekend in their homes. Doing with a group is fun as you can look out for each other if one participant is not doing it correctly. This not only makes for a good social activity but a healthy one too.
Copyright (c) 2009 Azmi Adnan
Azmi Adnan is a writer and a yoga practitioner. Subscribe to his newsletter for interesting articles on yoga at his website http://www.power-to-live.com/yoga.htm
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