Overview

Yoga is a system of physical, mental and spiritual development which originated in India. It is not a religion or creed and can be practised by anyone of any age and by either sex.

Yoga takes into consideration the entire man/woman, in every respect - nothing has been overlooked and the methods of physical discipline need improvement, as they comprise everything that man needs for the perfection of his health - correct breathing, posture, exercise, diet, physical and mental relaxation and hygiene. Yoga is practised by over 300,000 people in Britain today.

History

Yoga is a spiritual science of self-realisation. It comes from India and goes back over five thousand years. The Indian sage Pantajali, in his Yoga sutras defines Yoga as the control of the activities of the mind.

Yoga methods encompass the entire field of our existence, from the physical, emotional and mental to the spiritual. Its methods include ethical disciplines, physical postures and breath control as well as meditation.

Benefits

Hatha Yoga seeks to promote health and well-being through physical exercise. The regular practice of asansas (yogic postures), and breathing exercises (pranayama), makes the body strong, supple and healthy. It has a profound effect on the circulation and on the inner organs, glands and nerves - keeping all systems in radiant health and leading to greater energy, better concentration, and a happier, more fulfilling life.

Many common physical ailments can also be improved through the regular practice of yoga and it is never too late or too early in life to take it up.

Anyone can practice yoga.

Procedure

• Find a teacher
• Join a group
• Buy a book and/or video

One-on-one interaction with a teacher is invaluable experience. However, books and videos have their place, too. Remember, there is a yoga level for everyone, regardless of physical condition.

Source of information: The British Wheel of Yoga | The Yoga Site, Online Yoga Magazine