The field of yoga is dynamic and exciting. From its original teachings, it has evolved into a rich system of practices that address the harmony and well-being of body, mind, and spirit. It comprises techniques and exercises that can be used to promote clarity of mind, fullness of breath, and soundness of body. From the relaxation benefits of meditation to the improved physical functioning of the musculoskeletal and circulatory systems imparted by the practice of yoga postures, yoga can form an essential part of your individualized health and wellness program. Yoga’s reputation for relaxing, rejuvenating, and restoring body and soul are legendary and well earned. Whether you are looking for gentle relaxation or vigorous physical activity, there is a yoga style and practice to fit your needs. Read the rest of this entry »
In referring to yoga, it is common to use the original Sanskrit terms for various concepts and practices, as frequently, equivalent words do not exist in English. Yoga for Men adopts the convention of presenting these words in transliterated English, with a literal translation of their meaning generally provided parenthetically. Understanding the etymology of the original Sanskrit word can often be a helpful key to unlocking its meaning in English. Read the rest of this entry »
While many people in the West are only now discovering yoga, knowledge of yoga in the West is not new. In the late 18th century, interest in Sanskrit grew as scholars began to understand the importance and interconnectedness of the Indo-European family of languages. The Bhagavad Gita was the first Sanskrit text to be translated into English—in 1785 by the Englishman Charles Wilkins. American statesman Alexander Hamilton visited India, and even gave Sanskrit lessons in Paris, when he was detained there during wartime in 1802.
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The exact date and circumstances of the origin of yoga are unknown. This is because the practice of yoga is so ancient that it is believed to predate the written texts and visual images that depict it. Most scholars trace the origins of yoga to at least 5,000 years ago. Yoga is believed to have originated through the insights and experiments of ancient seekers of wisdom, mystics, and visionaries on the Indian subcontinent. Through intense inner searching, they developed practices that were passed down orally and eventually recorded in a body of text that is considered sacred in the Hindu and other spiritual traditions. Read the rest of this entry »
The world of yoga is diverse and multifaceted. While most people have probably heard of yoga, many people are somewhat mystified about what it is all about. A common perception is that yoga is a series of physical exercises based on some traditional Asian system. While yoga does indeed embrace a highly refined system of physical postures, it is much more than physical exercise. Read the rest of this entry »
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