The origin of Yoga as a practice is lost in the mists of time. The closest we can get is to say that it began in India over 5000 years ago. Beyond that is guess work.
Yoga is based on the idea of harmony; you might even say that it raises harmony to a whole different level. Its purpose is to bring the mind, the body and the spirit together in balance. It has survived as a practice because it works. It is one of the oldest and most effective systems ever to promote health and well being.
Yoga is more than just a form of exercise. While it does strengthen the body, its most important benefit is calming and organizing the mind. Regular Yoga practice has a number of benefits. It helps keep the body supple and strong while energizing the mind and boosting self confidence.
Yoga exercises are called asanas. Doing asanas on a regular basis has been shown to enhance brain wave coherence and improve functions such as memory and intelligence. It lowers the stress related hormones in the body and increases both mental and physical performance. Asanas also contribute to emotional stability by increasing the amount of a neurotransmitter serotonin in the body, which is known to induce good mood and a sense of happiness.
Yoga has a wonderful effect on our ability to focus. By focusing on breathing while holding poses, the practitioner learns to quiet the mind and focus his or her energy precisely where they want it to go.
Yoga also calms the mind and increases the sense of joy by heightening awareness of our surroundings. Some Yoga practitioners report that colors are brighter and sensory experiences are heightened. Practicing yoga and meditation decreases irritability, stress and anxiety. Lowering stress frees up trapped energy and and enhances confidence, enthusiasm and efficiency.
Meditation is an ancient practice that is an integral part of Yoga. Meditation helps you to first become aware of what's going on in your mind and then to tame your mind and bring it under the control of your intention. Instead of the mind running you, you run your mind. This gives you the ability to stay centered and focused regardless of the circumstances.
Yoga and meditation help you cope with the challenges of life both mentally and physically while maintaining your integrity and peace of mind. They increase self-awareness and self-actualization, by enabling you to understand your feelings and focus on a positive outlook, manage your energy and better understand your inner-self. They also help you become aware of your strengths, weaknesses and limitations.
Author: Dr. Tali Shenfield
Image Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kukhahnyoga/6052362466
