Yoga

Yoga has its roots in India and is a practice in which the body, mind and spirit move together. It is said that in yoga the body, mind and spirit become one and act together. From the outside it looks like physical exercise, but people often find that they relax, rest and settle mentally and emotionally as well, often without realising it.

What is yoga?

With its many types of yoga, it is a teaching that holds a rich culture and philosophy. It contains mental, physical and spiritual practices that are intended to help you feel better in body and mind. Found in many belief traditions, it aims to bring out your best self. The word itself carries meanings such as "union", "joining", "yoke" and "harness". Yin yoga, which draws on Chinese medicine, is one of the most popular types.

What is the history of yoga?

Although it has become much more popular in recent years, the history of yoga goes back almost 5,000 years. Yoga is known to have come from ancient Indian philosophy, and South Asia is one of its centres today. Over time it developed and was added to until it reached its current form, and with its different types it has become an ancient tradition.

What types of yoga are there?

Yoga is often thought of as a single form of exercise, but it has many different types. The best-known types of yoga practised around the world are as follows.

Hatha yoga

This is classical yoga and a balancing type of practice. It is suitable for beginners.

Ashtanga yoga

This is a power yoga with plenty of exercises and breathing techniques. It is also suitable for beginners.

Vinyasa yoga

One of the most energetic types of yoga, in which you move into one pose on each inhale and another on each exhale. It needs a good level of energy and fitness.

Yin yoga

Based on Chinese medicine philosophy, this type is slower and calmer than the others. Poses are held for longer, with the aim of gently stretching the connective tissues.

Kundalini yoga

A type of yoga centred on meditation, with holistic work on body awareness.

In addition to the types above, yoga therapy, restorative yoga and Bikram yoga are also practised today.

What should you do before yoga?

Yoga for beginners can do more harm than good if it is not done correctly. Although yoga looks easy, it includes many poses that challenge the body. Warm up your body beforehand and prepare yourself for the practice.

How is yoga done?

There are many answers to how to do yoga, because there is no single type of yoga. First decide which type you want to practise. You can then use online resources, join a yoga studio or take private lessons, so that you can practise safely and benefit from yoga.

What should we pay attention to when doing yoga?

First and foremost, take care not to injure yourself. Always do some stretching beforehand. It also helps to practise in the same place, on a suitable floor, in a room with suitable conditions. If you do yoga at home, avoid sticking to the same classes and videos for too long; progress to higher levels gradually.

What are the benefits of yoga?

Yoga is a holistic practice. The benefits of yoga that people commonly describe with regular practice are:

• It involves breath control, which supports the heart and lungs. Breathing well can ease the work of your organs.
• The basic positions and postures practised in yoga are described as supporting the digestive system.
• It supports muscle strength and the flexibility of muscles and connective tissue.
• It is a form of exercise that can be part of an active lifestyle, alongside a balanced diet.
• It can help ease back and other aches through gentle, regular movement.
• It is described as supporting general well-being.
• Many people find that it helps them cope with stress and feel calmer.

This page is for general information only; please consult your doctor and dietitian about your own situation.