What is yoga, and why do people practice it?

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It combines physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation to create a holistic approach to health and well-being. The word 'yoga' comes from Sanskrit and means 'to yoke' or 'to unite,' referring to the connection of mind, body, and spirit. People practice yoga for many reasons: physical fitness, stress relief, flexibility, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. Unlike typical exercise, yoga emphasizes awareness, breath, and presence rather than just physical movement.

Key Takeaways

• 1Yoga is more than exercise - it's a mind-body practice
• 2Originated in India over 5,000 years ago
• 3Combines physical postures, breathing, and meditation
• 4Benefits include flexibility, strength, stress relief, and mental clarity
• 5There are many styles to suit different goals and abilities