Basics of Yoga

Today I assume there is no such man who has not heard the term YOGA. In every corner of the globe the practice of yoga is going on in full swing. But it is absolutely true that very few people are aware of it quite confidently. Actually everyone opts for it without peering into the matter quite comprehensibly.

What is Yoga?
Yoga is a method of total fitness, vogue in India since time immemorial. In the past the sages practiced yoga to keep their health fit. Not only that, the practice of yoga leads one to tranquil spirituality. We now read of super men and women in comics who possess miraculous power. But if we go through the ancient scripts of India we come to know of such great saints and sages even ordinary men and women who actually possessed enough power. With the power of yoga they could do whatever they liked. We shall throw light on the issue later on. Initially let me tell you something about the branches of yoga. Precisely yoga has nine branches such as-

• Jnana
• Karma
• Bhakti
• Yantra
• Raja
• Kundalini
• Tantra
• Mantra
• Hatha

Main branches of Yoga
Today those who care for yoga never follow the nine branches. They follow actually the Hatha Yoga the practice of which brings good health and mind. In Hatha Yoga there are several kinds of exercises named Asanas (postures), Mudras (gestures), Pranayama (controlling of energy) and Bandhas (tuning of muscle forces). There is clear indication of deep breathing too in the Yoga system. If one carries on the practice of the five principles one can enjoy a disease free health showered with the grace of mental equilibrium.

Health benefits of Yoga
If you can practice yoga regularly you can experience yourself lots of health benefits. The structure of your body is sure to be improved, total blood circulation is improved all over the body, the muscles are strengthened, flexibility is increased, body is detoxified and above all the heart and lung functions are improved. Even the practice of yoga can relieve stress, anxiety and all sorts of body pains. Today’s world is packed with different problems that have negative effects on your mind and soul. Proper practice of yoga on a regular basis can make you free from all sorts of negative effects of all kinds.

Time schedule for Yoga practice
Yoga helps you to approach life quite boldly in a relaxed manner. Perfect practice of yoga makes you more energized. Half an hour's practice can totally rejuvenate you and in the time when you are ready to retire at night you are filled with new vitality and new vibrancy. Practice of yoga makes you punctual and mindful to your duties. An inner urge comes within your soul and you move forward with strong determination. As per your daily schedule you can practice yoga for an hour or just for 40 minutes. How long you do it is not worthy of mention, how you proceed with the techniques is the vital thing. Hence if you practice yoga yourself, do it minutely or take the help of a Guru to guide you properly.

Yoga Rules to follow
Before you start yoga you have to vow that you will all the time abide by the rules and regulations associated with yoga practices. Take yoga exercises daily at a scheduled time whether in the morning or at night. To coin the advantages of yoga you have to maintain a daily routine. Right now you can buy many videos, books, audio tapes and DVDs or CDs. With the aid of those materials you can practice yoga as per the instructions. Keep it in mind that whatever you do , do perfectly and in a relaxed manner. Never hurry, hurry may bring unwanted effects.

The perfect place to practice Yoga
The place where you practice yoga or breathing exercises must be serene, airy and lighted with the rays of the sun. You must avoid stuffy places for the yoga practice. Total concentration is essential for yogic exercises. Hence avoid such places where there is a clatter all the while.

Final tips for perfect Yoga practice
Finally it can be told with humbleness that if you want to practice yoga from videos or books, try to follow the instructions minutely. If you lack in confidence you may take help from a Guru who can teach you all the lessons step by step. Never make hurry in doing all the Asanas or Pranayama at a time. Hurry may lead to catastrophe. Carry on practicing yoga step by step, in a gradual process. Always remember you can not regain your lost health overnight. So have patience and go slow to achieve permanent outcome.