Yoga focuses on harmony between mind and body. Yoga derives its philosophy from Indian metaphysical beliefs. The word yoga comes from Sanskrit language and means union or merger. The ultimate aim of this philosophy is to strike a balance between mind and body and attain self-enlightenment. To achieve this, yoga uses movement, breath, posture, relaxation and meditation in order to establish a healthy, lively and balanced approach to life.

Though the exact origins of Yoga are unknown but Yoga is considered to be the oldest physical discipline in existence. Yoga, thus symbolizes balance in every area of life. In the earlier times, the rationale of the Yoga postures and breathing exercises was to bring stability and relaxation so practitioners could prepare for the rigors of meditation, sitting still and alert for long periods of time. In modern context also Yoga can play an important role in maintaining a fine balance between work and healthy mind.

• The most appropriate time for practicing Yoga is in the morning. It is the time when the mind is calm, composed and fresh and the body movements can be performed with considerable ease and vigor.
• To get started you need to have the urge and confidence in yourself.
• To practice Yoga you must choose a place which is calm, quiet, ventilated, dust free, moisture free and distraction free.
• Before you start Yoga, you must clear your bowels and bladder; clean your nostrils and throat of all mucus. You must also drink a glass of lukewarm water.
• Wait for a few minutes and then you can start.
• Like all other work outs you must begin with easy poses, thereafter you can advance to the tough ones. Be methodical and systematic.
• Remember, to start with your movements should be light and if you feel fatigue in between you must discontinue.
• Yoga must energize and not cause weariness and depression.
• You must take breaks in between if a particular step or exercise proves tiring.
• If you practice Yoga, your diet should be a balanced and you should eat after an interval of 4 hours.
• The quantity of food should be such that it satisfies your appetite.
• Over eating and fasting should be avoided. At the same time you must try to avoid stale food.
• Yoga clothing should be loose and as comfortable as possible. Form-fitting cotton/Lycra pants and shirts are the best.
• While performing Yoga your breathing should be long and deep. You must remember to keep your mouth close and inhale and exhale only through the nose.
• You should always keep a Yoga mat made of some comfortable materials. For lying postures use a woolen carpet, and spread a clean sheet over it.

The west came in contact with Yoga during the times of Plato and Aristotle who paid rich tributes to Indian philosophy in their works. These contacts were furthered with the Indian conquests of Alexander in the third century BC. Westerners who came to know about Yoga were more interested in mysticism. The formation of Asiatic Society of Bengal gave further fillip to Yoga. The society concentrated on studying all the culture and mysticism associated with India. Their research and translations included essays on the Vedas, yoga, and the poetry of Shankara. Many of the Indian epics and Vedas were translated into English. Bhagvat Gita was one of such translations. In the early 19th century, Yoga was introduced to the western world through translated works.

Modern Yoga arrived in the United States during the late 1800's. It can be attributed to many gurus, including Swami Vivekananda, and their apostolic works. The Germans also discovered the beauty of the Sanskrit language and Vedic mystery. Max Muller was the pioneer among the German scholars who contributed immensely to the popularity of Indian culture and mysticism. In the late 1800's and early 1900's, yoga masters began to travel to the west, attracting attention and followers. Hatha Yoga was the most popular Yoga form in the west. Slowly and gradually Yoga came to assume importance in matters related to health, peace, fitness and spirituality.

Disclaimer: This site is meant for informative purposes only and does not claim to be medically correct. Please consult a yoga master, before trying out any of the exercises and diets listed here. If there is an error in any of our articles on this site, kindly bring it to our notice by sending us a Feedback.