What Is Yoga And How To Get Started?
Yoga as a word in Sanskrit means a "union." In this case, the reference to a union is about a melding of the mind, body and spirit. Practically speaking, it is taken up these days less for moksha and more for stress relief and a better physique.
Sanskrit is one of India's oldest languages, and quite a few words will have to be used below for which translations are required. For instance, the enlightenment referred to above is called "moksha." The word "asana" will pop up quite often and means a posture or pose.
Pranayama is an extension of the life force (prana), but here it is a reference to the breathing techniques used. Dhyana means meditation and Kundalini means a coiled serpent. The reference here is to the coiled energy within.
A spectacular range of Yoga types or styles have developed over the last 3000 years or so. Beginners getting started have to pick one or two at most as a daily routine. The choice depends on what one seeks from it, and how much time can be devoted. It can be an hour or two in the morning or evening with trendy pants and a mat, or a fundamental philosophy shift and a new way of life.
Hatha and Vinyasa are two popular styles preferred in classes in Western countries. The famed Surya Namaskar or sun salutation is part of Vinyasa, perfect for a good morning and the key to a productive and energetic day. Hatha is simple while still incorporating all four aforementioned basic components.
Hatha is preferred by beginners because of the slow and gentle movements and focus on Pranayama. The need to approach it with a tranquil mind, followed by simple asanas and the impact of the breathing techniques, makes it perfect for winding down after a hard day. It relaxes the mind and body, and the stress melts away with each breath.
Ashtanga is more physical, with 75 asanas required to be taken in a couple of hours. It creates intense internal heat and a flood of sweat that detoxifies the skin, muscles and all the organs. The Bikram style is more precise, pushing oxygenated blood to every corner of the body using a hot room and 26 asanas that stretch muscles and joints in a systematic method.
At the other end, Iyengar Yoga is a simple type that can be practiced by anyone, with no barriers for age or health or physical conditions. A simple asana is held for a set period with the help of props like sticks or pillows. The focus and discipline needed to maintain the position clears the mind and provides stress relief.
Sanskrit is one of India's oldest languages, and quite a few words will have to be used below for which translations are required. For instance, the enlightenment referred to above is called "moksha." The word "asana" will pop up quite often and means a posture or pose.
Pranayama is an extension of the life force (prana), but here it is a reference to the breathing techniques used. Dhyana means meditation and Kundalini means a coiled serpent. The reference here is to the coiled energy within.
A spectacular range of Yoga types or styles have developed over the last 3000 years or so. Beginners getting started have to pick one or two at most as a daily routine. The choice depends on what one seeks from it, and how much time can be devoted. It can be an hour or two in the morning or evening with trendy pants and a mat, or a fundamental philosophy shift and a new way of life.
Hatha and Vinyasa are two popular styles preferred in classes in Western countries. The famed Surya Namaskar or sun salutation is part of Vinyasa, perfect for a good morning and the key to a productive and energetic day. Hatha is simple while still incorporating all four aforementioned basic components.
Hatha is preferred by beginners because of the slow and gentle movements and focus on Pranayama. The need to approach it with a tranquil mind, followed by simple asanas and the impact of the breathing techniques, makes it perfect for winding down after a hard day. It relaxes the mind and body, and the stress melts away with each breath.
Ashtanga is more physical, with 75 asanas required to be taken in a couple of hours. It creates intense internal heat and a flood of sweat that detoxifies the skin, muscles and all the organs. The Bikram style is more precise, pushing oxygenated blood to every corner of the body using a hot room and 26 asanas that stretch muscles and joints in a systematic method.
At the other end, Iyengar Yoga is a simple type that can be practiced by anyone, with no barriers for age or health or physical conditions. A simple asana is held for a set period with the help of props like sticks or pillows. The focus and discipline needed to maintain the position clears the mind and provides stress relief.
About the Author:
The centuries old techniques of Bikram yoga poses can assist you in alleviation of many negative conditions. You can try yoga for anxiety or for other purposes.
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