Yoga For Your Health

The many different yoga poses, or asanas, are the essence of the practice of yoga itself. Each has a specific mental health or physical benefit for the participant, and varies according to these schools of yoga.

Yoga is a traditional physical and mental discipline with origins in India. It is associated with meditation and includes several branches based in Hindu, Buddhist and Jainist faiths.

The word ‘yoga, ‘ itself, comes from the Sanskrit word for ‘to control.’ This is important as one of the main focuses of the discipline is the control of bodily movements, breathing and thoughts. In and of itself, it is a form of exercise which uses asanas to reach various goals, which range from simple improving health to liberation of suffering to praising a higher being.

There are thousands of various yoga asanas, or postures. As with most physical feats, you will begin with easier poses and move on to more advanced yogis. One of the most important aspects for each is the control of breathing. Each has a specific purpose and below you will find a brief outline of various poses.

First, Downward Facing Dog, is one of the simplest and most common poses. This is oftentimes the first pose taught to new students and is conducted in a standing position. Both palms and feet remain flat on the floor while hips are pushed away from the floor. Also known simply as Downward Dog, this is typically performed many times during the course of a single yoga class.

Child’s Pose is another commonly used stance. It is utilized by beginners and advanced practitioners alike. This is the position typically used as a form of rest during the class as it allows students to catch their breath and become centered again. It involves transitioning from Downward Facing Dog and dropping knees and forehead on the floor. There the entire body is relaxed, allowing for a mild stretch of the thighs, hips and ankles.

A seated position that is frequently used is called the Staff Pose. This is position is one that is the basis of many other seated poses. The Staff involves sitting with legs extended. From there, the feet are flexed, bringing toes towards the body, and it is used to gain strength in the legs and more easily align the body in general.

Cobra Pose: This is one of many back bends, a type of pose that is typically part of the Sun Salutation, a specific vinyasa sequence. The Cobra is performed with your stomach and legs flat on the ground and then by pushing up with your hands and arms. This position can help relieve back pain and is often done to improve spinal flexibility for students.

The Tree Pose: Lastly, this stance is one of the more difficult one. It is done on alternating legs and involves balancing on one foot, while bringing the other closer toward the body. Hands can be held together at your core or, for more difficulty, raised above the head. This stance improves balance and leg strength, while also focusing on breathing techniques and finding your center.

The practice of yoga is characterized by different asanas, which are also known as yoga poses or positions. These are focused on promoting health and offer different pro’s to all participants.

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