YOGA

Yoga is known as the oldest holistic philosophy of living. Though it is part and parcel of the practice of Hinduism, it would be a mistake to regard it a religion. It is a way of living. It does not preach adherence to a particular dogma and the practitioners of Yoga are free to follow their own faiths.

Yoga implies the ultimate union of physical, mental and spiritual health. One of the main theories of Yoga is the interdependence of all things in this universe. We have to look at all aspects of our lives-within and outside- to achieve an inner balance and equilibrium. Practiced daily and regularly, yoga creates mental clarity and emotional stability as well as a sense of deep relaxation and body awareness.

Yoga has two main components:

     

  1. Asanas: These consist of various bodily postures. Asanas stretch all parts of body and are even thought to massage internal organs, glands, circulation and respiratory systems.

     

     
  2. Pranayama: The art of controlled deep breathing. The asanas are synchronized with the breathing and affect every part of our body.

     

The asanas are done in a slow, sure and rhythmical manner without any sudden or jerky movements. Regular yoga will correct our stiffened joints and retard the aging process of the body.

Yoga is in essence a very well balanced and rational philosophy restoring a poised and symmetrical posture to our highly abused body. The spine especially benefits from asanas as it is fully stretched and turned in all directions.

Pranayama is intended to relax body and calm the mind, increase circulation and stimulate the blood supply to all parts of our body. Breathing should be done through nose, never holding breath. A movement should be carried out during exhalation, with a deep inhalation before it.

The following are the basic asanas, and should be learnt from an experienced yoga teacher:

     

  1. Preparatory posture

     

     
  2. Head stand

     

     
  3. Shoulder stand

     

     
  4. The plough

     

     
  5. The fish

     

     
  6. Head to knee

     

     
  7. The cobra

     

     
  8. The bow

     

     
  9. The half spinal twist with reverse twist

     

     
  10. The triangle

 

 

To experience the full benefit of yoga, it should be practiced at least three times a week. Always leave plenty of recovery time in between.

Yoga is an excellent way of fighting tension and boosting our mental and physical prowess and keeping us alert all through the day.

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