By Heather Richards
The ancient mystical practice and spiritual path of Yoga is believed to date back to the 8th century BC, the main sources of its concepts being Indian texts such as Upanishad and the Mahabharata. Although, seals from as distant a time as a thousand years earlier depicting yoga- and meditation-like postures were discovered by archaeologists at the Indus Valley Civilization site and many scientists think these drawings suggest a precursor of yoga.
In essence, the aim of the spiritual path of Yoga is achieving a union with the Supreme Consciousness, or even loftier goals set by some yogis (practitioners of yoga). However, outside India it is most commonly associated with the practice of postures and/or as a form of exercise. It can certainly have its advantages in both cases.
Raja Yoga is one of six orthodox stika (schools of thought) in Hindu philosophy. The term yoga is derived from Sanskrit, its root word can be translated a number of ways. For instance, it is most commonly taken to mean "uniting" or "joining", but sometimes it is understood as "mode, manner, means". With so many varied systems of yoga philosophy (similar to sects of Christianity) there may really be something for everyone to identify with and take to heart, but as mentioned before it is generally practiced in the western world today for health and well-being.
Practicing yoga postures can help to ensure optimum blood flow and supply throughout your body while massaging your various organs and gently stretching your joints and muscles as well. Yoga may increase the flexibility of the practitioner by exercising little-used joints and also help to lubricate different tendons and ligaments in the body of the practitioner. This can even be done by beginners with non-strenuous positions!
It is also suggested that by regularly messaging organs within our body which tend to not receive any external stimulation during everyday activity, we can become more aware of our bodies and more quickly and easily sense early onset symptoms of disease and infection, enabling us to take sooner action and better control of our physical health.
In addition, increasing and enhancing blood flow throughout the body of the practitioner can help to flush out toxins, which may lead to decreased ageing, increased energy, and essentially enhance the practitioner's quality of life! (Not to mention this valuable exercise can tone your muscles and trim excess body fat.)
I know, in spite of the vast multitude of benefits that yoga can offer for your mind, body, and soul, you still may not want to join an expensive class, or wear something like a leotard in a room full of strangers! Breathe easy, the above is not necessary at all, you are free to try it for yourself in the comfort of your own home by taking advantage of one of many available resources such as videos, books, or even eBooks which can help you to get started. Good luck and namaste!
Heather Richards has been in business for herself for over 25 years now and understands the importance of delivering quality, informative and relevant information. Heather has Professional Consultants and fellow Business Owners who contribute and assist to ensure she delivers information of a high standard. For many FREE Tips and Hints on a broad range of Topics Relevant to Women in today's society, Register for Your FREE Monthly Health and Happiness Magazine that includes great tried and tested Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes by our very own "Vegan & Health Consultant" at http://www.womensinfoproducts.com/
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