Yoga begins with meditation

by Roland Withanage

No matter how regular we are at the gym or keep off junk foods, most of us tend to be affected by everyday stresses. This is why we need to exercise the body and mind regularly. When the mind is focused, it is clear of distracting thoughts. In turn your movements too become calm and controlled, rejuvenating your system.

The Yoga Mantra has helped many in mental, physical, spiritual and emotional development. More and more people have come to realise the wonders of the discipline. Yoga has exploded into a fully-fledged fitness phenomenon today. It is like the universe itself, relaxing, energising and simply making you feel fabulous.

Chandra Namaskar

Often termed as a science or technology of liberation, Yoga can be coupled with a balanced diet to maintain good health. The word Yoga derives from the Sanskrit term ‘yog’ meaning ‘union'. Practised by ascetics for more than 5,000 years in India, Yoga postures (asanas) helps tone, strengthen and align the body. Breathing techniques (pranayama) and meditation help calm, purify and discipline the mind.

The wonderful art helps to heal many ailments such as diabetes, back pain, stress, high blood pressure and heart disease. It also improves the flexibility of the body, increases strength and reduces weight.

Yoga begins with meditation. Then it moves onto features such as cleansing, breathing exercises (bandhana) and Yoga symbols (mudhra).

There are several types of Yoga in the world. Hatha Yoga is a popular choice in today's fitness community. It is a particular system of Yoga introduced by Yogi Swatmarama, a yogic sage of the 15th century in India. The Yoga type is sometimes called a ‘dual’ form of Yoga because it includes a duality between two opposites: the sun and the moon. Asanas and Pranayama Aka subtle energy control are the principles which govern the system. One of the main ones stems from breathing. It improves oxygenation of the body and relaxation and fighting stress.

A Yoga workout usually lasts at least 30 minutes and involves a combination of different asanas. The postures should be practised sensibly. Choose poses that are appropriate with your mood and energy level. You should always start with easier postures and work up to stronger ones. It is important not to rush into or out of a posture, or strain yourself during a posture. Take your time, relax and rid yourself of unnecessary tension.

You are never too young or too old to reap the benefits or Yoga. It does not demand tedious workouts because it can be done in a slow pace. An individual is never forced to perform an asana in one go. He is always advised and allowed to mast the poses.

There are a lot of celebrities all over the world who practise Yoga for a better lifestyle. Top Hollywood celebrates such as Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston, Cameron Diaz, Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman, Meg Ryan, Ricky Martin, Bill Gates, Jon Bon Jovi, Miranda Kerr, Alessandra Ambrosio, Lady Gaga, Michelle Williams and Richard Gere are ardent followers of Yoga. Bollywood actresses Kareena Kappoor, Katrina Kaif, Shilpa Shetty, Kangana Ranaut and Sameera Reddy too bank on power Yoga to look picture perfect. One of the main reasons for them to be so taken up with Yoga is not only because it is a workout for the body and mind, but because it can be practised even on the sets or while they are one tour.