We all have our own perceptions and ideas about the term ‘Yoga’. However, being familiar with a concept or term is altogether different from being aware of it. Besides hearing about all the benefits that it has to offer, we are unable to make it an integral part of our lives. Now, popular in West, this holistic practice for mind, body, and soul originated in ancient India. The word yoga In Sanskrit, comes from the root yuj which means “to add”, “to join”, “to unite”, or “to attach” in its most common senses; as such.
Yoga is not merely practicing certain body postures known as asanas to relax mind and body. It has other major benefits that make it imperative to know what yoga is good for. There are many forms of yoga that one needs to be aware of including Hatha yoga, Kundalini yoga, Ashtanga yoga and Raja Yoga are the important one. Let us discuss each of them to get deeper insights.
Hatha Yoga:
“Hatha” in Sanskrit means “force” hence this type of yoga lay its emphasis on physical exercises that masters the mind and body and helps to withdraw it from external objects.
Kundalini Yoga:
Kundalini yoga derived its name as it focuses on awakening the Kundalini energy of a human being through the consistent practice of meditation, chanting the mantra, pranayama and yoga asana. Its prime aim is to cultivate the spiritual potential of a human to speak the truth, uphold values and focus on consciousness and compassion required to serve and heal oneself and others.
Ashtanga Yoga:
Ashtanga yoga (Ashta + Anga) is based on Patanjali yoga philosophy where Ashta means eight and anga implies limbs in Sanskrit. The eight limbs of ashtanga yoga include Yama(Principles of moral code), Niyama (Personal disciplines), Asana (Yoga positions), Pranayama (yogic breathing), Pratyahara ( Withdrawal of senses), Dharana (concentration of an object), Dhyan (meditation), Samadhi (salvation).
Why Should You Practice Yoga Daily?
Yoga has physical, mental and spiritual benefits for your body and mind. Here are few miraculous benefits of yoga.
- Cardiovascular Benefits: The risk of heart diseases reduces to a great extent when yoga becomes an integral part of one’s life.
- Regulates the High Blood Pressure: Regular practice of yoga leads to regulation of blood pressure in human body.
- Anxiety Management: Yoga plays a vital role in managing anxiety through controlled breathing and feel-good stretches.
- Fights Depression: The release of negative repressed feelings while practicing yoga helps to combat depression.
- Improved Memory and Better Concentration: Consistent yoga practice leads to enhanced blood circulation and reduction of stress in the brain thus, leading to improved memory and better concentration.
