What is Yoga?

Much of the terminology of yoga is in Sanskrit, the ancient language of India where the most popular forms of yoga were developed. The word ‘yoga’ is itself a Sanskrit word which is related to the English word ‘yoke’ meaning ‘to join’. It is usually translated as ‘union’ – a harmony of body, mind and spirit.

The original aim of yoga was spiritual. It is not a religion in itself, and you are not expected to believe anything you have not experienced for yourself. However, people who already have a spiritual practice find it can be enhanced.

Nowadays, yoga is practiced for its many other benefits as well – including health and general well-being. Many people practice yoga as an effective method for stress release and relaxation, or to improve their concentration. Some just enjoy the feeling of harmony and balance it can bring.

Yoga and How We Live Our Lives

Yoga teaches us ways of living harmoniously in the world. It gives practical guidance on how to deal with everyday life so that our environment, and ourselves are improved and enhanced.

Physical Yoga

You may have heard of ‘Hatha Yoga’ (hat-ha yo-ga) which is probably the most familiar form of yoga to people in the west. It comprises the yoga postures or ‘asanas’ (ahsnas), and breathing techniques or ‘pranayama’ (prah-na-yah-ma). Together, these practices are a balanced way of promoting physical well-being and peace of mind. They increase the flow of subtle energy – or life force, ‘prana’ (prah-na).

Yoga of the Mind

Yoga also teaches us good use of the senses leading to one-pointedness of the mind. This enhances relaxed alertness, and can have a profound effect on the ‘inner life’, not least by boosting the brain chemical serotonin responsible for feelings of well-being.

Suppressed or negative thoughts can be released and transformed allowing our real self to shine through.