Yoga today is accepted by the global community as one that fosters mental, physical and spiritual well-being of mankind. It has been backed by strong and well-researched studies suggestive of the many benefits that can be accrued from it. All these Manifold benefits of yoga lead to an overall healthy and qualitative life.

The Ultimate Truth about Yoga

A very intricate and time-honoured practice, yoga is deeply embedded in Indian philosophy. What began as a religious practice in yesteryears today has become a contemporary way to physical, spiritual and mental well-being. What actual yoga is far transcends and beats what Americans perceive it to be. For the latter it is just a few postures, breathing techniques and meditation; however it is much more than that in reality.

Yoga of Mind

When the brain plays the vital role of keeping the whole body going, it is imperative that mental health should be at the top of the priority list. Yoga for the brain means it helps the brain to function at lightning speed. That apart, it promotes mindfulness, better concentration & attention spans. Chronic stress is put to ease that sets in motion the parasympathetic nervous system and improves cognitive functions. Memory and the brain’s executive functions are enhanced resulting in double the efficiency. Yoga helps to alleviate depression and bring about emotional stability.

Yoga of Body

A well-sculpted body is everyone’s desire and passion – whether they secretly desire it or openly proclaim about it. The myth that it can be achieved by hitting the gym alone can now be put to rest. For now here are the days when everyone knows that yoga can work wonders on the human body. It can tone the body, reduce the fat and replenish it with lean muscles. It enhances flexibility, strength, balance and posture improvement. A well-toned and balanced body does not allow many injuries and pain to afflict the body. A good circulatory system ensures a boosted immune system. Overall yoga for the body optimizes organ function to its maximum.

Yoga of Soul

Yoga for the soul is a good way to attain mindfulness which increases concentration manifold. It helps individuals practicing it to focus on the present no matter how tough the going is. It also helps to take relationships to the next level. When the world is at strife and conflict, inner peace is what is missing from everyone’s life. Yoga is the surest way of retrieving it back. When the inner mind is at peace, it awakens self-discovery, compassion, gratitude, interconnectedness, fulfillment which ultimately leads to the path of authentic living.

Manifold Benefits of Yoga

While one may think that yoga is all about poses, meditation and breathing techniques, it is way above that. Here is a list of yoga benefits:

•         Improved flexibility
•         Stress reliever
•         Elevated mental health and brain functioning
•         Reduced inflammation
•         Increased strength
•         Anxiety reliever
•         Augmented quality of life and improved self-esteem
•         Boosted immunity
•         Well balanced body
•         Better cardiovascular functions
•         Peaceful sleep
•         Superior bone health
•         Excellent posture and body awareness
•         Fights exhaustion and fatigue

The Practice of Yoga

By now it is absolutely clear that yoga is all about the well-being of body, mind and spirit. This interconnectivity and wellness is achieved by the six branches of yoga of which one branch is the primary focus of contemporary yoga practices. This is the hatha yoga which is the physical and mental branch with goals to gen up the mind and body.

Top Three Asanas

Here are three yoga poses or asanas for beginners. Even the pros might use it. 

Mountain Pose (Tadasana) – It impacts all the major muscle groups in the body and enhances focus and concentration. It teaches the art of steadily standing upright.

Tree Pose (Vrksasana) – It helps in gaining focus and clarity while it also helps the doer to breathe while standing on one foot all the while balanced.

Triangle ( Trikonsana) – It stretches the sides of the waist, exercises the lungs, makes the legs strong and tones the whole body. 

Yoga is that instrument to achieve harmony between mind, body and soul with its comprehensive benefits. With its practices, it ushers mental clarity, physical well-being and spiritual growth. It is that transformative journey in reaching the goal of balance, inner peace and vitality in life.

Also read – Yoga For Human Connection And Community Building: Fostering A Sense Of Belonging Among Youth