Muscles & Yoga
The practice of yoga is often thought of as simply a workout routine, but it constitutes much more. Yoga originated in the Himalayas and descended into the Indus Valley over 4500 years ago, and was more a way of life than anything else. It became a central part of several religions, such as Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism.
The Many Limbs of Yoga
8 separate “limbs”
form the entire practice of yoga. They are:
Yamas: Restrictions
Niyamas: Observations
Asanas: Postures
Pranayama: Breathing
Pratyahara: Detachment
Dharana: Concentration
Dhyana: Meditation
Samadhi: Unity with Brahman
Sanskrit for State of Divine Origin
Asanas are Central to Yoga
Many people teach Hatha Yoga. It includes only the Asanas and Pranyama. Asanas are at the very center of the yoga practice. The human body, in practicing asanas, discovers its own restrictions.
Asanas are any steady and comfortable position. Anyone can hone their skills of concentration & meditation, and become more detached from physical surroundings.
