Yoga originates from India. It is mentioned extensively in the scriptures that form the basis of the Hinduism. Not only that, there is a large section devoted to this ancient practice in the Holy book of Gita. So with such an ancient origin of at least 5000 years old, there is much to be said about yoga.
Avid and learned practitioners of Yoga are known as Yoginis and yoginis in India. This has caught on in the west and yoga experts and teachers are often referred to as Yogis.
Mostly here in the UK yoga focus on learning the physical poses and the breathing techniques from yoga. Each pose in Yoga is called Asana. The asana or the posture is combined with the breathing to boost the circulation and improve the flow of the Prana. There are many different styles of yoga, while some may be more relaxing there are some styles that are more energizing and include the use of props. Fast yoga styles include the power yoga and Ashtanga yoga style. These involve faster and more strenuous styles of yoga which require a lot more stamina than perhaps the slow hatha styles of yoga.
Yoga benefits health and body as well as the mind. Yoga is a non aerobic form of exercise and requires a good teacher. You cannot do this without being taught some basics by an expert. You may learn some postures via books and DVD but the best way to learn it to go to a class. After which you can practice this from home.
Some of the benefits of yoga include stress relief, inner peace and improved immunity. It also helps one live with greater awareness and increased energy.
The Sun Salutations and Kapal Bhati pranayama are very beneficial for health, they help maintain a healthy weight and improve energy flow within the body.
Our system is a seamless blend of the body, mind and spirit. An irregularity in the body affects the mind and similarly unpleasantness or restlessness in the mind can manifest as an ailment in the body. Yoga poses massage organs and strengthens muscles; breathing techniques and meditation release stress and improves immunity.
If you do decide to take up yoga you will need some yoga essentials. There is plenty on offer in the yoga market from yoga clothes for women and yoga mats. These are perhaps the most important things you may need to invest in when you start this wonderful practice.
There are various other yoga accessories in the market but really buy only what you need. Some props like the cotton strap do help for yoga as it helps you maintain and maximize your stretch. However apart from that you do not need much else.
Choosing your style of yoga is key. Overall all yoga styles will help tone your muscles and increase suppleness. Each posture is for a specific area and benefit. And the idea is to develop strength and promote regular blood circulation to all organs of the body.
Live a healthy lifestyle practising yoga using various equipments like yoga wear and eco friendly yoga mats online.