What is Yoga Really

What is Yoga, Really?

Yoga is widely known as a form of exercise that stretches and strengthens the body through various poses known as asanas. For other people, yoga is the realization of inner self-satisfaction. For still others, it is a pursuit of higher consciousness; a path to closer union with their God.

Many people, despite the popular practice and oft-heard information about yoga, are confused as to what yoga really is...and what it can really do for us.

So what is yoga, really?

Yoga goes far beyond just mere exercises full of awkward-sounding routines. Yoga is a means to the union of mind, spirit and body - a path to connect all the major components of our essence. Yoga originates from the ancient Hindu philosophy used to attain spiritual insight and harmony.

The word 'yoga' is derived from the Sanskrit “yeung”, which means 'to join'. A yoke, as used to hitch oxen, is closely related, but the same root also gives us "join", "joust", "junction", "junta", "juxapose" and "adjust" to name a few. Yoga is understood to be the means to 'connect', to 'bind' to 'join' the major triad components of our essence.

Yoga is actually considered a science. Indeed, in many places in the world (such as India), it is referred to as a science.

Yoga is approached as a science in terms of the scientific method. Yoga science aims to verify cause and effect via objective observation. In many places in the world, one can achieve credibility as a yoga master only if highly educated in the sciences, and especially the biological sciences.

Yoga consists of integrated techniques that influence directly and indirectly the physical, mental/emotional and spiritual make up of the person who practices it. Yoga is generally referred to as to the common use of a system of exercises that is practiced as part of this discipline.

These excercises, consisting of various 'asanas' - or poses, moves, positions - have been developed through thousands of years to target the entire gamut of bodily systems and components, from the mind and emotions, to the organs, glands, skin ,cellular tissues and more.

By performing these exercises, following proscribed routines, yoga has proved to heal many disorders, resolve emotional trauma, overcome addictions, open the spirit to higher awareness allowing amazing results in all three areas of connection...and more. By focusing on one area, practioners worldwide have reported astounding effects gained in the other areas of the 'triad' as well; a true connection of the mind and body with the spirit to make one whole.

There are many institutions of yoga, all of which have their own unique practices and beliefs. Finding the style that is right for you can be a challenge for beginners--but an important one. You may find that you prosper by learning more than form of yoga as well.