Therapeutic Yoga Yoga Workshop


 

 

 

YOGA – HARMONY OF BODY, MIND & SPIRIT



Yoga is an ancient scientific technique which has become very popular now. The word “Yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “Yuj” which means “to link” or “to unite” …… but with what or with whom? Firstly, it is to unite with one’s own self, and then with the universal energy or with the divine. Yoga therefore signifies the union of the human spirit with the Universal Spirit to obtain relief from pain and suffering.

Yoga is not a religion – it is a philosophy of life aimed at developing a perfect balance between the body and the mind, which in turn creates a perfect harmony between the individual and the cosmos. The ultimate aim of Yoga is self-realization.

Yoga as a system of physical exercise has been in existence in India since very ancient times. According to the ancient sages, there are 8 stages of Yoga to secure purity of body, mind and soul : Yama (Social Discipline), Niyama (Individual Discipline), Asana (Postures), Pranayama (Breath Control), Pratyahar (Mental Discipline), Dharana (Concentration), Dhyana (Meditation) and Samadhi (Self Realization).

 

Yoga asanas (postures) and Pranayama (breath control) not only bring improvement to the human body from a physical point of view, but are also beneficial for developing a positive, optimistic outlook on life, bringing with it a state of serenity. The practice of Yoga not only helps one acquire perfect health, stay young and live longer, but also enables us to overcome our failings and withstand stressful situations with calmness.

Yoga also helps us to create a link between different systems working within us i.e. the digestive, nervous and respiratory systems etc., so that all these systems work in harmony and good health can be maintained.

Yogic exercises are essential for keeping the internal and external organs of the body healthy and vigorous. No activity can be well performed unless one is healthy. The body and mind are closely related with each other, and one cannot function properly without the other being properly cared for. Hence, the practice of Yoga keeps both the body and mind in excellent health.

Good health is a gift of nature, and it is up to man to make a wholehearted effort to preserve it. In spite of all the comforts and conveniences of modern science, man’s physical and mental condition is deteriorating every day. Illness is nature’s way of letting us know that we need to devote some attention to the repair of our bodies. Yoga is undoubtedly one of the surest means of preventing illness or helping to cure it.

Who can practice Yoga?

Both men and women, young or old, children, the aged and even those who are sick or infirm can benefit from the constant and regular practice of Yoga. There is no barrier of caste or creed, culture or ethnic backgrounds. When Yoga is practiced correctly and conscientiously, it becomes a sure way of restoring balance, helping us develop determination and resistance, and above all, to find serenity and inner peace.

 

 

 

 BENEFITS OF YOGA


1. In most other forms of physical exercise, the internal organs of the body do not get proper exercise. In contrast, Yoga asanas (postures) give sufficient exercise to the internal organs of the body, improving the functioning of internal organs such as heart, lungs, kidneys etc. Consequently, an individual can maintain good health and longevity of life.

2. Increased oxygen intake resulting in purification of the blood, higher red blood cell count and enhanced blood circulation to all parts of the body – skin becomes bright and glowing, toxins are expelled from the body, removing blockages in energy channels.

3. Improved digestive system - body is able to absorb nutrients well from the food we eat resulting in increased energy levels.

4. Improved immune system - body becomes more resistant to common illnesses. Toxins and other waste matter is eliminated in a proper manner from the body, hence the body has more resistance power to prevent diseases.

5. Yoga asanas naturally stimulate important glands in the body such as pituitary, pineal, thyroid, parathyroid etc. these stimulated glands function at optimum level, helping the body to acquire a well-balanced growth.

6. Prevention and cure of several ailments such as asthma, diabetes, constipation, blood pressure, hernia, migraine, insomnia, stress, obesity, PMS, impotency, sterility etc.

7. The body becomes flexible by doing Yoga asanas. It becomes active with an increased ability to perform activities. One who performs Yoga asanas also looks younger and lives longer.

8. Life span, youth and health depend upon the flexibility of the spine. Yoga helps to keep the spinal cord strong and flexible.

9. Yoga has a greater impact on the mind and the senses compared to most physical exercises, resulting in the development of one’s physical and mental powers to calm the mind and control the senses.

10. Helps in developing stronger powers of concentration and better memory.

11. Yoga helps the mind to experience tranquility. There is progressive intellectual development because of the calm mind, improving ability to manage stress, hypertension, problems in day to day living, etc.

12. Self confidence becomes stronger due to improved physical and mental well being, allowing the individual to realize his/her full potential.