Ancient India is where yoga, a physical, mental, and spiritual exercise, first appeared. The technique was passed down from teacher to student long before this literature was created, with the first codification coming from the guru Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras around 400 C.E. This transmission used to be done one-on-one, but as yoga gained popularity in the West in the 20th century, group classes have taken over.

The Sanskrit root yuj, which means "to yoke" or "to combine," is where the word yoga originates. The goal of the practice is to unite the physical, mental, and spiritual selves as well as human awareness as a whole. A sense of spiritual awakening is often brought on by such a union, which tends to balance ego-driven ideas and actions.

While there have been many diverse interpretations and methods of yoga over the years, most practitioners seem to agree that the ultimate aim of the practice is to be liberated from pain. While each yoga school or tradition has its unique emphasis and practices, most yoga schools and traditions center on integrating body, mind, and breath as a way to change the energy or shift consciousness. You can learn more about Yoga as a discipline here!

You can also take Yoga classes to enhance your knowledge of the subject. The IPATH Method offers amazing courses to individuals of all ages. The IPATH® Method is 10 years old. The courses are pretty timely as The Integral PATH to living well.

Following are the Seven benefits associated with yoga;

1. Yoga is good for the heart

Regular yoga practice may lower stress levels and overall inflammatory levels, promoting heart health. Yoga can also be used to treat a number of risk factors for heart diseases, such as excessive blood pressure and obesity.

2. Yoga is beneficial for easing back discomfort

In regards to reducing pain as well as improving mobility in individuals with lower back pain, yoga is just as effective as simple stretching. Yoga is suggested by the American College of Physicians as a first-line treatment for persistent low back pain.

3. Yoga enhances flexibility, balance, and strength

While holding a certain position can assist enhance strength, deep breathing, slow, and movement warm up muscles as well as enhance blood flow.

4. Yoga helps you unwind, which promotes better sleep

According to research, practicing bedtime yoga regularly might help you set the correct mood and get your body ready for sleep.

5. Yoga can help you cope with stress

The National Institutes of Health state that research supports the benefits of yoga for stress reduction, mental health, mindfulness, good eating, weight loss, and restful sleep.

6. Yoga may help enhance vigor and happier moods

After establishing a regular yoga practice schedule, you might experience an improvement in mental and physical energy, an increase in attentiveness and enthusiasm, and fewer negative emotions.

7. You can find a supportive community through yoga

Yoga courses may also assist a person feel less alone and provide a setting for communal healing and support. Loneliness is diminished even in one-on-one sessions since each person is respected for their individuality, given a chance to be heard, and involved in the development of a tailored yoga program.

Numerous physical and mental disorders are treated with Yoga, and recent mind-body studies have shown that it is useful in treating conditions including diabetes, heart disease, anxiety, and depression, et al. Yoga is an integral part of life, I don’t want you to just take my word for it though. Get on your yoga mat and experience for yourself the incredible benefits of yoga practice with IPATH. You are invited to share your experiences in the comments below or feel free to drop an email to info@theipathmethod.com