Yoga: Refresh Yourself for the New Year!

“Yoga is not a religion. It is a science, science of well-being,
science of youthfulness, science of integrating body, mind and soul,”
-Amit Ray (Indian author and spiritual master)

What’s Yoga?

Yoga comes from the Sanskrit root “yuj” that means “to join”, “to unite”, or “to disciplinate.”  Originating in India, yoga is a healing spiritual, physical, and mental practice with over 5,000 years of history. The main purpose of this practice is to harmonize the body with mind through a variety of postures, meditation, and breathing techniques.

History of Yoga

The first mention of yoga was found in an ancient Indian collection of Vedic Sanskrit songs, mantras and rituals known as the Rig Veda (1500 B.C.E.). “Vedic Yoga” consisted of ritual sacrifices and ceremonies. Two and a half thousands years later, yoga was described in Bhagavad-Gîtâ (“Song of the Lord”) as the ego sacrifice through self-knowledge, action and wisdom. This practice, known as pre-classical yoga, was a mix of ideas, beliefs and techniques that frequently contradicted each other.

The next era for Yoga development or classical yoga was defined in the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali in 400 C.E. Patañjali described eight components of yoga that lead to enlightenment. Developed later, post-classical yoga or Tantra Yoga  is known for rad
ical cleansing techniques for body and mind. Modern yoga was born in the early nineteenth century.

Health Benefits

Yoga positively affects body and mind. Practiced regularly, yoga increases muscle strength, improves flexibility, eliminates poor posture, lowers blood sugar, strengthens joints, increases self-esteem, improves bone health, increases blood flow, drops blood pressure, boosts immunity, reduces risk of heart attack, relieves depression, improves balance, prevents IBS, and makes you feel healthier and happier.

Start the New Year fresh, harmonize your body and mind, get in shape and improve your overall health with online

Yoga Classes or check out yoga events near you on WPHHA calendar. Namaste!

Western Pennsylvania home Health Associationis a non-profit organization, servicing clients throughout Western Pennsylvania. At WPHHA we have coined the term “mobile healthcare services” to meet your needs on your time. These include in-home nursing, non-medical homecare and rehabilitation services. Our main concern is to help you or your loved ones maintain the highest level of wellness and independence possible.

‍