Yoga - An Introduction to Yoga
In order to introduce yoga, you must know the definition of yoga. Yoga is "unity" or "oneness" that is derived from the Sanskrit word "yuj" which means to join.
Whenever I hear the word yoga, my mind takes me back to the 60's, with pictures of Volkswagen vans with colorful flowers painted on them. I think of the flower children gathered at parks, sitting in circles with their legs crossed in positions that seemed unnatural to the body, chanting "Ohm" around campfires or candles.
A little History
Yoga became popular back in the 1960's when the Beatles began their quest for spirituality, and ended up on the door step of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi popularized Transcendental Meditation otherwise known as TM.
Countless scholars believe that yoga dates back more than 5,000 years to the beginning of human civilization. They believe that yoga grew out of the stone age shamanism, because of the cultural similarities between modern Hinduism, and Mehrgarh, a Neolithic settlement (now Afghanistan).
Much of the Hindu ideas, rituals, and symbols today appear to have their roots in the shamanistic culture of Mehrgarh
Yoga is for Everyone!
Yoga practitioners have brought this ancient practice of wellness to our modern days. No longer do we have to journey to far off lands, you can just drive to a local health club, YMCA, or yoga center.
Yoga is actually an ancient art that has been practiced for centuries. Over the last decade, it has become more popular. It is being used to get in fit, to get in touch with ones self, and to keep the balance of sanity in a truly insane world.
Studies frequently reveal yoga's health benefits, this hundred year old eastern belief is quickly becoming a new spiritual fitness for workout enthusiasts. Even businesses, and their top executives are trying to keep their bodies, souls, and minds healthy and fit.
The Hollywood stars have jumped on board, and are striving for thin, fit, and healthy bodies through yoga. Some of the top athletes are adding yoga to their training schedules to develop balance, and injury free muscles, and spines.
If we were to praise yoga for its physical benefits alone, we would only take away from what the entire system offers as a whole. In practicing yoga on a regular basis, you may be surprised that you are building much more than a strong, flexible body.
Yoga - A Mysterious Phenomenon
Yoga is no longer considered a mysterious phenomenon. It is simply just a way to keep you healthy and aligned. This introduction to yoga will hopefully interest you into exploring all the wonderful benefits to this fantastic technique, which also includes meditation.
Conclusion
The recognition of yoga, is growing rapidly as people are constantly trying to reduce the stresses of everyday life, with their own spiritual being. We are not medical professionals, but we are simply trying to provide you with an introduction to yoga and meditation. This is a way for you to get started on your own person journey to see the benefits of yoga.
If you have any special health problems, you should always consult your doctor before embarking on any new fitness programs. We cannot be held responsible for any problems that may come about from your yoga program. This is simply an information tool to show you the many paths to optimal health.
You may find that once you start adding yoga into your daily exercise routine, you will most likely notice a heightened state of well-being, and a more spiritual connection to both your inner self as well as any higher power you choose to acknowledge.
Yoga can better your life in so many ways. It can help you become better in your marriage, as a parent, in your job, and as a person. You can help others by spreading your experiences with yoga and meditation. It will not only enhance the lives of others that your touch, but you will be surprised how this ancient art has already enhanced your life!
Shanti (peace) to you as you journey to your own Shambhala (place of utter tranquility). Namaste!
