Preceding choreography and calisthenics, yoga is an ancient way of working out, dating back to 5,000 years ago in the Indian culture, where it was carried out as a system of personal development and spiritual practice. Therefore, yoga is an exercise program from which one can get significant health benefits not necessarily having to approach the spiritual side of it.
In order to reach the goal of self-realization, those who practice yoga have to study its main eight limbs and make them a part of their lives.
The first limb is called Yama. It defines the ethical code by means of which the practitioners measure and monitor their behavior. Thus, behaviors like injuring the others, lying, being greedy, stealing or engaging in sensual activities are refrained.
The next limb of yoga is represented by Niyamas, which denominates the totality of observances exerted by practitioners in order to control their mental energy and attain willpower. An observance implies purification, sacred study, contentment, austerity and attunement to the absolute.
A third projecting part of yoga resides in Asanas is constituted of the poses and exercises which form the physical aspect of yoga. These exercises aids the practitioner to build up the connection mind-body and develop physical strength, balance and flexibility.
Pranayama, the forth limb, means the science of Prana and is focused on how to manage to control one's thought processes by controlling one's breathing.
A fifth limb of yoga is called Pratyahara and relies on a series of breathing techniques and exercises used to separate consciousness from sensual perception. Withdrawal of the conscious mind from the bondage of the physical body and its instinctual drives represents the main purpose of this branch of yoga.
Dharana is designed to develop endurance by means of conscious effort and the power of concentration. It is carried out through certain breathing techniques and exercises, among which mantra.
The seventh component of yoga is represented by Dhyana, aims at achieving an effortless state of meditation. The last limb, Samadhi, is based on advanced breathing techniques and exercises that return the individual consciousness to perfect divine unity.
Being more than an exercise program (yoga means "union" in Sanskrit), yoga addresses the whole person, aiming at cultivating the mind, the body and the spiritual potential that one possesses.
Paul has been writing articles online for nearly 2 years now. Not only does this author specialize in diet, health and finance, you can also check out his latest website on interior design classes which reviews and lists the retail interior design.
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