So, what is Yoga?
Derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning ‘to unite’; Yoga is a spiritual discipline that focuses on bringing harmony between the mind and the body. Yoga is an art and science for healthy living and leads to self- realisation. The main aim behind this practice is to overcome all kinds of sufferings and adopt a sense of freedom in every walk of life with holistic health, happiness and harmony.
General guidelines for yoga practices
Before the practice:
- Yogic practice should be performed in a calm and quiet atmosphere with a relaxed body and mind.
- Yoga should be practicedon an empty stomach or light stomach. Consume small amount of honey in lukewarm water if you feel weak.
- Bladder and bowels should be empty before starting Yogic practices.
- A mattress, Yoga mat, durrieor folded blanket should be used for the practice.
- Light and comfortable cotton clothes are preferred to facilitate easy movement of the body.
- Yoga should not be performed in state of exhaustion, illness, in a hurry or in acute stress conditions.
- In case of chronic diseases, pain, cardiac problems, a physician or a Yoga therapist should be consulted prior to performing Yogic practices.
- Yoga experts should be consulted before doing Yogic practices doing Yogic practices during pregnancy and menstruation.
During the practice
- Practice sessions should start with a prayer or invocation as it creates a conductive environment to relax the mind.
- Yogic practices shall be performed slowly, in a relaxed manner, with awareness of the body and breath.
- Do not hold the breath unless it is specially mentioned to do so during the practice.
- Breathing should be always through the nostrils unless specified otherwise.
- Do not hold body tightly, or jerk the body at any point of time.
- Perform the practices according to your own capacity.
- It takes some time to get good results, so persistentyoga practice and regular practice is very essential.
- There are contra- indications or limitations for each should always be kept in mind.
- Yoga session should end with meditation or deep silence.
After Practice
- Bath may be taken only after 20- 30 minutes of practice.
- Food may be consumed only after 20- 30 minutes of practice.
How Yoga can help?
Yoga is a process of creating a connection between the body and the mind, which leads to a positive and fulfilling life. Researchers have found that Yoga is helpful in following:
- Physical fitness, musculoskeletal functioning and cardio- vascular health.
- Management of diabetes, respiratory disorders, hypertension and many lifestyle related disorders.
- Regulate menopausal symptoms.
- Reduce stress, depression, fatigue and anxiety disorders.
References:
Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH), Government of India,
‘Common Yoga Protocol’, PDF
(accessed on June 9, 2017)
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information.
