Yoga is an ancient art that connects the mind and body. It is essentially a spiritual discipline based on an extremely subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. Yoga is initially originated by India. It was first initiated by the sage Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras around 400 C.E.C.
The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root Yuj, that means ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite’. Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years, and whilst many different interpretations and styles have been developed, most tend to agree that the ultimate goal of yoga is to achieve liberation from suffering. Yoga gives a person mental peace and comfort. Modern yoga is most commonly associated with the physical practice of Asana, a series of postures often weaved together in styles such as Vinyasa Flow or Ashtanga. Asana practice is generally intended to build strength and stamina, to improve flexibility, coordination and balance, and to relax the body. However, this provides only one small aspect of the tradition of yoga as a whole.
There are few types of Yoga:
Yamas
Niyamas
Asana
Pranayama
Pratyahara
Dharana
Dhyana
Samadhi
Also the four traditional paths of Yoga are, Karma that is action/selfless service, Bhakti that is devotion, Jnana that is knowledge or self-study and Raja that is self discipline. Yoga is also used as a therapeutic tool for many physical and mental conditions.
