Yoga is essentially a spiritual discipline based on an extremely subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. It is an art as well as science of living a healthy life. The word ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj’, meaning ‘to join’ or ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite’. Yoga is an old discipline from India and it is both spiritual and physical. Read more about the benefits of the age old practice in this writeup by Samikhya Kalita on the International Day of Yoga.
The importance of life is the health of our body. If health is not good, then we will not be able to achieve our goals or will not remain happy. It is rightly said that “Health is not everything, but without health everything is nothing.” Why to practice Yoga in our daily life some people ask. Practicing yoga develops physical health, mental health and spiritual health. It also helps one’s spiritual growth and helps in self realization.
Some benefits of Yoga:
- Yoga increases your flexibility.
- Yoga helps you to build strength.
- It improves your posture.
- Yoga helps to keep your joints healthy.
- Yoga is a powerful mindfulness practice.
- It also reduces stress.
- Yoga helps maintain blood pressure.
- Yoga helps you to make healthier life choices.
These practices developed as a practice to unite the mind and body. There are many branches of yoga. All yoga styles can help balance your body, mind, and spirit, but they achieve it in various ways. No matter what type you choose, yoga is a great way to stretch and strengthen your body, focus your mind, and relax your spirit.
We all know the tough times we are facing, there is no socializing, some people can’t even meet their families, some are worried about their jobs and we hear so much disturbing news throughout the day. But, do you know that it can also be your best friend during the lockdown?
Since practicing yoga is all about you, it helps you to understand yourself. When you practice yoga in a group, you get connected to others sharing the same energy, and experience. And when you are doing it all alone the entire energy is directed towards you. Without any fixed time or place, practicing yoga comes with the flexibility to decide the best for you.
Asanas or Postures in Yoga
Yoga asanas, coupled with pranayama, can improve flexibility, strengthen bones, enhance balance, and even boost the immunity. Some of best yoga practices include Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation), Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Uttanasana (Standing forward fold), Virabhadrasana II (Warrior 2 pose), Balasana (Child’s pose), Anulom Vilom, Nadi shodhana pranayama, Bhramari pranayama etc.
The uncertainty and unpredictability associated with Corona virus can fuel an unpleasant and scary train of thoughts. Controlling this mental overload is not an easy task – and so it is essential to take a break. The benefits of yoga are widely known and accepted, particularly to boost both the mood and immunity. Yoga asana relieve the tension in the body, while pranayama helps to take control of the endless thoughts.
This article about Yoga was contributed by Samikhya Kalita. She is a Yoga Trainer based in Guwahati.
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