What is yoga?

Yoga is an ancient practice that is said to be 5000 years old. It is a practice for the body and mind. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word yuj, meaning union. The union that is being made is of the mind, body and breath. 

There are many different types of yoga. In some styles the poses or asanas are held for a particular number of breaths, and in other styles the practitioner moves from one pose to the next. All the while aligning the breath with the movement. There are styles that are more energizing and some that are more restful and relaxing. There is a style for everyone and it is best to try a few and see what is best for you.

Most think that yoga is a physical practice aimed at strengthening and stretching the body. The movements or postures are used to quiet the mind and prepare the body to sit for meditation. Many of the poses you see in the media are advanced and make the average person feel like they could never do yoga. Actually it's a lot of fun, it can be challenging and it can get the blood pumping. It can also calm the body and mind. Yoga is for everyone and every body.