Monday, April 16, 2012

Yoga, an ancient Hindu devotion that has become a way of conditioning, stress relief and holistic health for Westerners

warrior 1 by bendyburg
warrior 1, a photo by bendyburg on Flickr.

Yoga, from the Sanskrit word similar to the English word "yoke." To yoke the mind and the spirit.

Hindu devotion has 5 forms. US yogis usu teach Hatha Yoga.

pranayama - breathing control.
asana - positions.
dharma - concentration; right purpose.
chakras - the body's energy centers.
yogi - expert practicioner.
guru - teacher or master.
diet - simple, fresh ingredients.
downward-facing dog asana