An introduction to yoga

Hatha Yoga is a simple set of guidelines for a physically, spiritually and mentally healthy life, developed thousands of years ago. It is believed that Yoga originated in the Indus Valley in India and archaeologists working there have unearthed art and sculptures depicting yoga postures thought to be at least 5000 years old.

The regular practice of postures, called 'asanas', and breathing exercises, called 'pranayama', makes the body strong, supple and healthy. It has a profound effect on the circulation and on the functioning of the inner organs, glands and nerves, keeping all systems in radiant health and leading to greater energy, better concentration, and hopefully a happier, more fulfilling life. Many common physical ailments can also be improved through the regular practice of yoga, and it is never too late or too early in life to take it up. Anyone can practise yoga.

There are many different styles of yoga; the differences are usually about emphasis, such as focusing on strict alignment of the body, co-ordination of breath and movement, holding the postures, or the flow from one posture to another. All of the styles share a common lineage. In fact, the founders of three major styles—Astanga, Iyengar and Viniyoga—were all students of Krishnamacharya, a famous teacher at the Yoga Institute at the Mysore Palace in India. With the current fashion for Yoga there are now hundreds of styles and many more are appearing all the time. No style is better than another; it's simply a matter of personal preference.

The asanas/postures are the thing that many western classes concentrate on, this is just one of the eight limbs of Yoga which are detailed below:

Yama

5 ethics relating to others - non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, non-possessiveness/envy and moderation in physical pleasures i.e. eating/chastity

Niyama

5 ethics relating to self - cleanliness, contentment, self-discipline, study and attentiveness to the god of your heart

Asana

postures

Pranayama

breathing

Pratyahara

withdrawal of senses/control of the senses

Dharana

concentration/mind control

Dyana

effortless meditation/contemplation

Samadhi

super conscious state/ultimate bliss/enlightenment