Yoga is a spiritually inclined discipline based on an extremely subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. The word “Yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Yuj,” which translates to “unite” or “to join.” This union is referred to as that of the mind and body and integrating yourself with your surroundings and nature. The practice of Yoga leads to the union of individual consciousness with that of the Universal Consciousness, indicating a harmony between Man and Nature. Yoga has proven to improve the physical as well as mental well-being of people who practice it regularly. Yoga offers a holistic approach to physical and mental health.
BRIEF HISTORY
The practice of Yoga is believed to have started with the very dawn of civilization. It is believed that the science of Yoga has its origin thousands of years ago. Lord Shiva is considered the first Yogi. It is believed that he passed on his knowledge to seven learned men known as the Saptarishis, who in turn spread this knowledge in seven different directions covering diverse regions. One of the Saptarishis, Agastya, traveled across the Indian subcontinent and crafted the culture around a core yogic way of life.
The earliest record of the word “Yoga” is in the ancient Indian text “Rig Veda,” which dates back to around 1500 BCE. There is also evidence that suggests that Yoga was practiced in the Indus Valley civilization, which dates back to around 2500 to 1500 BCE. Several fossils have been found that depict yogic positions, and seals like the Pashupati seal depict a three-faced being in a seated Yoga posture, surrounded by animals.
Yoga is even mentioned in the Upanishads, which are Vedic and post-Vedic Sanskrit texts that document the central teachings of Hinduism. The Upanishads discuss the practice of Yoga, its styles, and its divisions. The texts describe Yoga as a way to attain transcendental knowledge and as a resource for self-actualization. Out of 108 Upanishads, there are 20 Yoga Upanishads. Techniques like “Pranayama” and “Pratyahara” are discussed in the texts.
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Yoga is an ancient practice that exists till date because it is considered extremely beneficial for the human body and mind. It has evolved over time to meet the current times and needs of the people and has become extremely popular around the world. Yoga includes many styles, including some that emphasize physical alignment, breathing, and meditation.
BENEFITS
FLEXIBILITY, STRENGTH, AND BALANCE
An important part of Yoga practice is stretching your muscles. A lot of exercises and poses in Yoga are aimed specifically at stretches to improve flexibility, strength, and balance of the body. When the body is encouraged to hold yoga stretches for a long period of time, it allows muscles to go deeper into the stretch. Poses like the Child’s Pose, Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana), Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana), Cat-Cow Pose, Eagle Pose (Garudasana), and many more help you focus on balance, enhance the body’s flexibility, and also make you stronger. With age, flexibility and strength decrease because the joints, muscles, and connective tissues in the body become stiff and less elastic. Yoga can help improve and maintain flexibility and range of motion even in advanced age.
BACK AND NECK PAIN RELIEF
Yoga has proven to be very beneficial for back and neck pain as it helps stretch and strengthen the muscles in those areas. Yoga poses target the muscles in the back and neck. Some poses help stretch tight muscles and strengthen weak ones, leading to reduced pain and improved posture. According to an article published in “John Hopkins Medicine,” The American College of Physicians recommends yoga as a first-line treatment for chronic low back pain.
WEIGHT LOSS AND MAINTENANCE
People who practice Yoga regularly and eat a nutritious diet are more in tune with their bodies and lead a healthy, disciplined lifestyle. According to an article published in “Harvard Health Publishing,” researchers found that individuals who practice yoga for at least thirty minutes for four years have gained less weight in their middle age. People who practice yoga regularly had lower body mass indexes (BMIs). Yoga also helps an individual be mindful of their lifestyle and diet, which leads to improved health overall.
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Several studies have found yoga to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health. Practicing yoga can help lower blood pressure, blood cholesterol, blood glucose levels, and heart rate. According to the “National Library of Medicine,” Yoga is a promising technique to control cardiovascular diseases. Yoga helps detoxify the body, mitigate chronic fatigue, and enhance endurance. It is also believed to improve organ and immune functions.
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STRESS RELIEF
Yoga is an excellent exercise that helps loosen up tense muscles while relaxing both the mind and body. The areas of the body that carry the most tension are the neck, back, and shoulders. Some yoga poses and exercises specifically target these areas to strengthen them and reduce aches. Practicing yoga can lower cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone, which promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety. Additionally, yoga helps improve sleep quality, leaving you feeling more refreshed and rejuvenated.
Yoga is more than just asanas and poses. While practicing yoga improves physical health, it also fosters greater control over the body, mind, and spirit, enhancing self-awareness and overall well-being. This ancient practice has stood the test of time, offering numerous health benefits. Incorporating yoga into your daily routine can significantly improve your life and health.
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