Yoga is a form of exercise that is conducted in every corner of the world. It may seem as an exercise for those practicing it, but it is originally connected to religion. It stems historically from Hinduism, as well as Jainism and Buddhism. Both Buddhists and Hindus chant the sacred mantra ‘Om’ during their meditation. ‘Om’ is said to echo the sound of harmony in the universe.
Yoga is an ancient form and was once known as Vedic yoga, which dates back to Rig Veda, the oldest Sanskrit work in the world. It was written more than 10,000 years ago. In ancient times yoga was often referred to as a tree, a living entity with roots, a trunk, branches, blossoms, and fruit.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is one of six branches; the others include raja, karma, bhakti, jnana, and tantra yoga. Each branch with its unique characteristics and function represents a particular approach to life. The oldest practice of yoga that is still used today is Hatha Yoga. Hatha yoga is the most popular and the one offered in most gyms. It covers all the traditional aspects of yoga such as body awareness, breathing, and meditation. This type of yoga is ideal for people starting for the first time since the general postures are basic.
Photo: Nate Johnston
Hot Yoga
It is found that India is the ideal place for the practice of yoga because of its temperature and humidity. There are those who prefer hot yoga, where it is performed under hot and humid conditions. This form of exercise seems to imitate the hot, humid climate of India.
Yoga Sutras
Many want to know who started the ancient art of yoga. The father of yoga is Patanjali. He confided all aspects of yoga into a certain form known as the Yoga Sutras. This is a collection of 196 verses or sutras and yoga. Making Patanjali representative of the title “The Father of Modern Yoga.”
Yoga Today
Modern yoga is one of the most loved activities. It is both creative and original to its ancient form. There are many benefits to yoga. It improves strength, balance, and flexibility. It reliefs with back pain, eases arthritis symptoms, benefits heart health, relaxes you and makes it easier to sleep. Yoga also provides energy, brighter moods and helps take the stress away.
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The yoga community is supportive. They are groups of individuals called yogis that practice yoga religiously. Many times is all they ever do. Yogis regularly acknowledge themselves as a group of yoga enthusiasts that love the practice of yoga, rather they are labeled health fanatics. They even accompany yoga with meditation. Meditation is another form of exercise that is trending. The miraculous combination of both yoga and meditation is amazing and the results cannot be timed but offer a better and much healthier lifestyle. There is so much to say about yoga, but the history behind it is definitely worth a mention.
