what is yoga?

Yoga, one of six fundamental systems of Indian thought, is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning “the state of being unified,” or “to direct and concentrate one’s attention.” Hatha yoga involves the practice of asanas, or postures, that work toward achieving balance of mind and body. The practice of Hatha yoga can help maintain physical, mental and emotional health, regardless of age or present physical condition.

Vinyasa yoga is a popular, evolving form of Hatha yoga that focuses on integrating breath and movement, awareness and alignment, strength and flexibility, and your practice with your daily life.

Through the practice of asanas, students learn to position and work the body in ways that stretch and strengthen the major muscle groups. Through a steady flow of breath, muscular effort and movement, asana practice creates a state of inner balance that encourages attention to proper alignment, strength in the muscle groups, and overall functioning of the inner organs. Asanas also work the deeper postural muscles that maintain the proper working of the joints and spine.

Vinyasa yoga originates from the yogic teachings of Sri T. Krisnamarchya. Krisnamarchya’s students are the founders of three of the main forms of yoga today: Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga (Pattabhi Jois), Iyengar Yoga (BKS Iyengar), Viniyoga (T.K.V.Desikachar).

who should do yoga?

Anyone can practice yoga.

Yoga offers powerful tools for improving full-body health. It is good for people of all ages and states of health. Men and women can practice yoga. Flexibility is not a pre-requisite. Hatha yoga moves each individual from his or her own starting point, through an active process of identifying and eliminating blocks and impurities in the system, resulting in greater self-awareness and a more balanced state of physical and mental health.

The asanas exercise the whole body, making one increasingly fit and supple. Asanas stretch and tone the body's muscles, joints, spine, and skeletal system, while revitalizing the internal organs, glands and nerves. Yoga breathing exercises (pranayama) complement the asanas, helping to revitalize the mind, leaving one feeling calm and refreshed. Through the practice of yoga, physical and mental tension is released, improving health in the body, and unleashing formerly untapped reserves of energy.

For those with specific physical conditions (i.e., high blood pressure, arthritis, scoliosis, diabetes, osteoporosis, reduced lung capacity, overweight, etc.), yoga can provide considerable restorative benefits as well. Ideally, the selection of asanas should be tailored to provide maximum benefit for each individual. While one asana might be beneficial for certain conditions, it can also be counter-indicative for others. Therefore, it is important to recognize your own limitations, and let the teacher know - before class - about any special ailments or conditions you might have.

If you are pregnant and new to yoga, you may begin with the guidance of a pre-natal yoga instructor. For those with a regular practice you may continue to do yoga, though many poses will require modification. It is essential that you inform your instructor if you are pregnant before joining a class.