History Of Yoga

Yoga's history is over two thousand years old, which is why it has greatly, developed over time resulting in many practices and branches.

Each branch is developed to serve different needs and purposes but, generally they all serve the purpose of harmonizing and identifying the equilibrium between body and mind. In this article we present a closer look at different yoga branches.

Anyone interesting in increasing well being should direct himself to the practice of hatha yoga. This branch is considered to be one of the primary forms of modern physical therapy. Aside from meditation, which is common of all yoga branches, hatha yoga teaches a series of important postures (known as asanas) and breathing exercises (known as pranayamas).

Another common and appreciated branch of yoga is the karma yoga that promotes the principle that all that happens is a consequence of previous actions. As a result, karma yoga encourages its practitioners to try and eliminate all negativism and selfishness from their present, in order to avoid dealing with them in the future. Karma yoga should be practiced daily, including while at work, and activities should be carried out with the goal of helping others.

Raja Yoga is a branch of yoga that places a great accent on meditation. This is also known as classical yoga. Raja yoga is a more complex form of training and generally begins with hatha yoga, in order to prepare the body for more advanced stages. Studies show that people attracted to this branch are generally more introspective and interested in profound meditation. Various religious groups devote themselves to this path, which is close to a monastic or contemplative lifestyle.

Jnana yoga is a branch of yoga directed to scholars and implies a development of the intellect through the study of yoga tradition scripts and texts. It is known to the yoga of the hear and wisdom. It is described as the most difficult of all yoga practices but is also one of the most direct and challenging paths.

Bhatki yoga is another popular branch that promotes and sustains the idea of devotion. The main message transmitted by this path is that there is something divine in any form of creation. Thus, it is important to tolerate, accept and respect all forms of life.

These are only a few of the various yoga branches or paths. The important thing to remember is that anyone can find a yoga practice that is able to suit his needs of finding the inner equilibrium and peace.

 

Yoga Health

History of Yoga
Yoga Health Benefits
 

Yoga Positions for Beginners

Yoga Bow Pose
Yoga Bridge Pose
Yoga Cobra Pose
Yoga Easy Pose

Copyright 2006 by Yoga for your Health. Inspired by OddSource