Introduction to Yoga
Yoga is not only a sport, but also a discipline that incorporates philosophical teachings as well as stretching and balancing exercises. Yoga involves the practice of a series of postures, referred to in Yoga as “asanas”, that work to exercise and stretch the muscles and joints. Meanwhile, breathing exercises, or pranayamas, structure the performance of the postures.
Yoga is a discipline which has many facets. Regular meditation is integral to the sport and helps develop concentration and also physical prowess. Meditation is also inextricably linked to the spiritual experience of Yoga and the religious beliefs and practices of the Indian religions.
Yoga is a sport practiced in groups (classes), with a guru (teacher) and shishya (students) who follow the movements and breathing instructions of the guru, though many who regularly practice the discipline do so individually in their own homes. Some people use it as a form of exercise and relaxation, whereas others delve deeply into the philosophy and spiritualism of the practice.
There are various branches of Yoga identified by the form of their practice and associated school of thought. Major branches of Yoga include: Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Jivamukti Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jhana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Iyengar Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga.