Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that has branched off into various forms. The different forms of yoga fulfill an assortment of purposes. Individuals may participate in yoga in order to improve physical health, increase emotional well-being or boost spiritual strength. While most types of yoga incorporate varying amounts of meditation and breathing, Hatha yoga focuses more on developing physical strength and flexibility.
Yoga
The practice of yoga began 5,000 to 6,000 years ago in India. In its original form, yoga was a philosophy that included a complete lifestyle intended to provide a path to spiritual enlightenment. During the 1890s, Swami Vivekananda brought America's attention to the practice of yoga, which then gained popularity during the 1960s.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is the most commonly practiced type of yoga in the United States. Many gyms and health centers teach Hatha yoga as one of many exercise classes. Hatha yoga emphasizes the physical postures called asanas. The workout sessions typically include a period of warming up, stretching and practicing the poses. The poses incorporate balanced movements. For instance, a pose that focuses on arching the back generally follows one that focuses on rounding out the back. With regular practice, Hatha yoga can help build muscle strength and flexibility. The sessions often end with a quiet period that allows for meditation or self-examination.
Other Forms
Other branches of yoga, such as Bhatki, Jnana, Karma, Tantra and Raja, are not as common in the United States as Hatha Yoga. These other forms tend to emphasize spiritual contemplation and growth. Karma yoga teaches the philosophy that present actions determine future circumstances. Acts of generosity and self-sacrifice play a major role in this type of yoga. Jnana yoga focuses on developing wisdom and enlightenment through meditation. Most forms of yoga, including Hatha yoga, teach breath work, known as pranayama.
Benefits
Yoga offers a multitude of benefits. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, yoga techniques that include breathing, exercise and meditation may help increase blood circulation and lung capacity while reducing blood pressure and anxiety. Executing the postures can provide a workout that improves muscle strength and flexibility as well as balance. Certain postures may improve the function of hormones, regulate digestion and massage the internal organs.
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