Yoga in India
Yoga like Ayurveda is an ancient science that helps in keeping body and mind healthy. Practiced by yogis and saints in India, Yoga is perhaps the best way to attain peace of mind, body and soul. At a time when mind is not free, soul is wired and body is tired, Yoga breathes a fresh air of life to our body, mind and soul. Yoga in India is just not an isolated exercise regime but it's an important part of life.
The word Yoga has come from the Sanskrit word, Yoga, which means to bind or unite. Thus Yoga believes in the integration of body, mind and soul. Yoga is an ancient science of well-being, which is believed to originate during the times of the Vedas. The essence of Yoga lies in remaining calm and controlling once thought.
Yoga uses various asanas and breathing techniques to keep the body and mind healthy. Pranayam is one such yogic exercise that involves a series of breathing techniques. According to Yoga, proper breathing activates unused body muscles and helps in relaxing the body. Surya Namsakar or salutation to the sun is another basic yogic exercise that is of immense help to keep our body in shape. You can also try padmasana or the lotus position that has a number of benefits. The padmasana is an important asana that involves sitting on the floor with legs crossed. The legs should be crossed in such a manner that your left foot should lie on the right groin and the right foot on the left groin.
There are many other different aspects to Yoga, however Yoga may be divided into eight main Yogas. The eight main Yogas are Karma Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Tantra Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Raja Yoga and Laya Yoga. Different schools of thought on Yoga follow different applications for inner discipline and integration of body, mind and soul but all lead to the same goal-the goal of a healthy self.
India has a number of Yoga centers across the country. Yoga centers in India provide all information and training. There are various Yoga centers located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is in these scenic and pollution free locales, Yogis practice this art of healthy living. One can also find a number of Yoga centers in southern India, especially Kerala, which of late has become a one-stop destination for Ayurveda and Yoga. These days many hotels and spas in India also provide lessons and workshops on Yoga.
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