We live in a time when the practice of yoga is widely available. Yoga is available online, on TV, in the gym, and so on. To many, this looks like great exercise, and while this westernized yoga is great exercise, that is not all it is.   

 

Yoga, meaning to yoke or unite, is not a religion, nor is it simply exercise and stretching. It is a practical and ancient science and art, which, when applied and practiced regularly, harmonizes body, mind, and spirit, significantly improving health and well-being. Practicing yoga is like building any other relationship. It takes time, attention, an openness to meet yourself where you are, and a willingness to try new things. Yoga practice may be gentle, restorative, therapeutic, or more athletic, but it is always mindful—mindful of body and breath, and the connection between the two.

 

The application of yoga goes far beyond what you practice in the hour or so on your mat;  the practice becomes a way of life. Some of the benefits of yoga are:

• greater sense of body awareness

• stress management and reduction

• increased muscle tone and strength

• increased flexibility and agility

• improved balance

• balanced metabolism

• improved respiration, energy, and vitality

• weight loss

• improved immune function

• improved cardio and circulatory health

• improved athletic performance

• increased self-esteem and confidence

• increased ability to focus

• increase of positive emotions, decrease of negative emotions

• heightened intuition

• increased sense of connectedness and joy