Ancient Hindu yogis used asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing) to prepare themselves for long periods of meditation. In the West, these same practices are used for relaxation and body sculpting, although true Hatha yoga involves an entire holistic path with meditation and study as well.
Hatha yoga (pronounced "ha-tuh") literally translates to "sun-moon," referring to the two different energy channels within the body. Most Americans know yoga as the combination of breathing techniques and posturing, but in traditional Indian religion, it is one of the paths that leads to Raja Yoga (or the "contemplation of One Reality.") The practice of this yogic form was widely spread by 15th Century Indian sage Swami Swatamarama and was designed to assist individuals in finding and unblocking internal chakras (or energy centers). Through true understanding and meditation, it was believed that disease and disorders could be prevented and treated in this way.
The first step is the practicing of the different asanas (poises) to help the mind and body align with one another and open the inner channels of communication. By finding the right posture, one can remain comfortable for long periods of time while meditating. Secondly, proper breathing techniques (sometimes referred to as "pranayama") are taught. Next, some students may choose to delve more deeply into the philosophical roots. Yoga instructor David Williams (from Hawaii) once noted, "Before you've practiced, the theory is useless. After you've practiced, the theory is obvious."
The end result of practicing this style of yoga is markedly noticed almost immediately. Suddenly you can stretch a bit further and touch those toes. You're not huffing and puffing carrying laundry up to the top floor of the house anymore. Your bowel movements are even more regular than usual and you find that stomach aches and head aches rarely occur these days. Your abdomen, legs and gluteus are looking more defined too. When you're at work and start to feel stressed, you take a deep breath and reconnect with the relaxation techniques you learned in class, although the anxiety rarely reaches you on a physical level anymore. Your energy levels are revitalized, your hormones are balanced and a calm sense of euphoria and appreciation for each day takes root in your soul. Life is good, thanks to Hatha yoga, a practice that goes back thousands of years to some infinite source of knowledge the West generally seemed to have overlooked.
While many of us wish we had the discipline to properly perform Hatha yoga at home with a DVD, it's simply not feasible -- in the truest sense. Attending yoga class is a bit like attending church on Sundays, in that it gives us that set-aside time to focus, meditate, appreciate and reflect. Much like a priest, the yoga instructor brings an atmosphere of supreme holiness and quietude, while helping you sense your weaknesses and align yourself correctly in tune with your core being. Yoga is not something you can do half-heartedly or skimp out on. Instead, it requires full attentiveness and studiousness. Even if your end goal is purely fitness-oriented, take the time to appreciate this ancient Indian practice and learn the right way. You just may be surprised by what you learn about yourself!
There are many different forms of Yoga that people around the world practice. Some use it primarily for its low-impact workout whereas others love the feel of meditation and concentration required in some of the many poses. Yoga is a great way for those suffering from injury or unused to a cardiovascular workout to begin their path to becoming physically and mentally fit. Exercise is an important part of our daily lives and the added benefit of learning relaxation techniques is enough to entice anyone onto a mat. Find your relaxation and work out by clicking here for more information: Yoga Positions and at Types Of Yoga also at Yoga Poses
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