What is Yoga?
The word Yoga derives from India and it means "union of.” It is where the spirit, mind and body comes together as one. Yoga is characterized by the Indian Sanskirt word “asana,” which is the method of poses and body dispositions. In the western part of the country, the words Yoga and asana are substitutable.
Although we don't know the composer of Yoga, we do know that it was being practiced before people could write. The first known practice of Yoga is by Patanjali, who wrote the book Yoga Sutra (sutra meaning "thread" in Sanskirt) and lived about 2,000 to 2,500 years ago. People who teach Yoga still go by the teachings of Patanjali.
Five main types of Yoga are practiced here in the United States. Hatha is the first one and teaches the beginning stages of learning specific poses. Iynegar is also a good start for beginners. It deals with holding poses for a longer time and keeping balance. Kundalini uses quicker movements it also uses chanting, meditation and breathing. Bikram is practiced in a room that is heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally Ashtanga, it is called power Yoga in the United States. After doing this type you will feel like you were in a traditional strength workout.
In learning about Yoga, you need to know what the eight "limbs" are. Five proper instructions for conscientious action to others are called Yama. They are nonviolence, noncovetesness, nonstealing, nonlust and truthfulness. Five proper instructions for conscientious action to oneself is called Niyama. This includes surrendering to GOD, contentment, cleanliness, self-study, sustained practice. Practicing Yoga movements is called Asana. Practicing of the usage of your lungs is called Pranayama. Taking away the complication of the outside world from yourself is Pratyahara. Dharana is focusing on being peaceful with no interference from the outside or inside world. Building upon the last "limb,” Dhyana is not just focusing on one thing but enclosing all things. Lastly, Samadhi is consolidating oneself with the universe.
You can find places to do Yoga by searching the Internet or asking the facility that you workout in. It is said that Yoga is the connection of your mind, body and soul. It is the unity of all things in the inside and outside world. Yoga is indeed a spiritual destiny.