More than three thousand years ago, a scientific system of physical and mental practices called Yoga originated in India.
Yoga literally means "union". Through Yoga, we can still the mind and achieve union with our divine source.
The practice of Yoga purifies the body and the mind for the purpose of developing concentration.
Concentration leads to a mind where thought has been stilled and to super consciousness. This higher consciousness brings knowledge of reality and peace.
With Yoga, we can extend our healthy, productive years far beyond the accepted norm and, at the same time, improve the quality of our lives.
- Increase flexibility of the body and free all the energy blocks
- Help in losing excess flab and weight
- Massage the internal organs of the body and the rarely stimulated parts such as the thyroid gland.
- Treat several health disorders - from common ones such as backaches and arthritis to uncommon ones
All Yoga styles are universal in their communication. The “Namaste” - a symbol of respect and humility, is the hallmark of the ancient Indian yogic philosophy.
Place the palms of your hand at chest level and press them firmly together. This hand position is known as the universal peace mudra. It helps direct attention to your heart space, and cultivates positive emotional energy.
This is the same namaste position but practised with hands behind. This helps maintain good posture, keeping the shoulders back and the spine erect. It also improves breathing capacity and lung strength.
“Yoga is for all of us. To limit yoga to national or cultural boundaries is the denial of universal consciousness.”
“Yoga is the union of the individual self with the universal self.”
“Classic poses, when practised with discretion and awareness, bring the body, mind and consciousness into a single, harmonious whole.”
“An asana is not a posture you assume mechanically. It involves intelligent thought, at the end of which a balance is achieved between movement and resistance.”
- B K S Iyengar.