Monday, September 8, 2008

Heal Your Mind, Body and Soul with Yoga

What is yoga?

Yoga is a complete science that originated in India thousands of years ago. It is the world’s oldest system of fitness, encompassing the mind, body and spirit. The word `Yoga’ means "union". It is derived from the Sanskrit word "yujir " meaning "to yoke" or "to join". Yoga is the practical aspect of a philosophy called Vedanta, which is laid out in the Upanishads and maintains that there is one absolute reality that underlies everything in the universe. Among the most important teachings of Yoga are instructions on how to control your body through your mind.

Yoga helps you in keeping your body fit and mind peaceful. In recent years, medical research has begun to pay attention to the effects of Yoga. Studies have shown, for instance, that relaxation in the Corpse Pose or Shavasana effectively relieves high blood pressure and that regular practice of asanas and pranayama can help relieve diverse ailments such as arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, asthma, varicose veins and heart conditions.


Is yoga a religion?

Yoga is not a religion nor is it a mystic cult. It is a spiritual technique, which has something to offer to everyone, religious and the non-religious, men and women irrespective of age, faith or race factors.

Is yoga effective in modern life?

The pressures of work and home, coping with deadlines, and just the business of daily living has become too stressful today. You’ve probably tried everything under the sun from tranquilizers to pills to even dancing your blues away. But nothing seems to help you. Go for Yoga. It acts like a balm and soothes your mind, body and soul.

Yoga is an effective stress-buster and helps lower your stress levels. Here's how:

It controls stress not only on a physical level, but on a mental and spiritual level too.

Yoga asanas release the physical tension of your body and lubricates it. It keeps your muscles and joints running smoothly, tones all the internal organs and increases circulation, without creating any fatigue.
Pranayama gives vitality by increasing the supply of oxygen to the brain.

Finally, meditation stills the mind and enhances your powers of concentration.

Yoga improves the strength and flexibility of your mind and body, and helps you to relax. It frees you from stress both physically and mentally, often heightening your powers of intuition and creativity. Thus you can leverage this ancient science perfected by Indian sages over the centuries to work for you today.

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