Monday, August 8, 2011

What is yoga and why should I be doing it?


Yoga began as a desire for greater personal freedom, a better self-understanding, better health and a longer life. Not much has changed since yoga began has it? Most of us are still searching for the same things people were more than 5,000 years ago.

The word yoga means to “to join or yoke together,” which brings the body and mind together into one harmonious experience. By learning to control your breath and silent your mind, you will allow your body to restore and heal itself from everyday stress.

Yoga is designed to enhance physical exercise, breathing and meditation. Your body is the primary tool that allows you to work and evolve in the world. Practicing yoga teaches students to take care of their body and respect all that is does.

Now that you know a little about yoga, you’re probably wondering why you should practice yoga. The benefits of yoga include building strength and stamina, increase flexibility, reduce stress and anxiety, and learn the art of relaxation. Yoga makes everything better.

“Practicing yoga on a regular basis has made me aware of the tension that I carry in my body and the importance of releasing it,” said Sasha, medical sonographer and student at Inner Peace Yoga. “When I am in my yoga class, I can totally tune out the world’s demands and expectation of me. I always leave feeling invigorated and restored.”

I encourage you to try a yoga class for yourself. Yoga is for everyone! Soft yoga and deep stretch yoga are two great classes to check out if you are a beginner. Do you currently practice yoga? Share how yoga has made your life better in the comment section below. We love to hear from our readers and their journey of yoga. 

2 comments:

  1. To put it simply - Yoga brings individuals out of their worries for a while. It changes their focus, and forces them to put their attention on moving through the Yoga poses. This distancing, from the problems and struggles of life, leads to a different perspective, when the Yoga session is over and it is time to return to 'reality.
    Soul Motion

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  2. Compassionate people resolve conflicts by putting the needs of others before their own, resulting in a more peaceful situation for everyone. If everyone in the world acted with compassion and empathy, conflicts would be reduced and we would be on the path to world peace.

    ilchi lee prayer of peace

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