Yoga FAQs
|
|
- What is yoga?
- How is yoga different from meditation?
- Do I have to practice all of the principles of yoga to benefit from it?
- I have never tried yoga before but want to do it now. Where should I start?
- How often and for how long should I do the asanas?
- Can I do the asanas by myself with the help of a yoga book?
- Are yoga classes safe?
- Do I need special equipment for yoga practice?
- Are there any other helpful guidelines for yoga practice?
- Do I need to be on a vegetarian diet to benefit from yoga?
- How is meditation practiced?
- What is pranayama?
- For More Information
- Web Links
- Synonyms and Keywords
- Authors and Editors
- Related Yoga Articles:
Slim Bodies, Strong Minds - from Health & Living on MedicineNet
What is yoga?
The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning union. It is an ancient system of physical and psychic practice that originated during the Indus Valley civilization in South Asia. The first written records of this methodology appeared around 200 BC in Yogasutra of Patanjali. The system consists of the eightfold path, or Asthangayoga. A contemporary interpretation of yoga describes yoga as a systematic practice aimed at developing harmony in the body, mind, and environment.
Next: How is yoga different from meditation? »
Living Better
Find the secrets to longer life.
From WebMD
Fitness Resources
- Joint-Friendly Exercises That Decrease Pain
- Do You Sweat Too Much?
- Do You Need a Fish Oil Supplement?
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Yoga FAQs
Yoga Overview
Yoga is defined as a systematic practice of physical exercise, breath control, relaxation, diet control, and positive thinking and meditation aimed at developing harmony in the body, mind, and environment. The practice entails low-impact physical activity, postures (called asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), relaxation, and meditation. Most people are familiar with the physical poses or yoga positions but don’t know that yoga involves so much more.
In the health fields, yoga techniques are being applied in health promotion programs, substance abuse treatment programs, and as complementary treatment for diseases such as anxiety disorders, depression, coronary heart disease, cancers, and HIV/AIDS. Yoga is a low-cost self-help approach to well being.
The origin is a Sanskrit word Yog meaning union. Yoga is a union of the organ systems in the body with the consciousness in the mind. Philosophically, yoga produces a ...
Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine
Postexercise Muscle Soreness »
Hough gave the first detailed description of delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in 1902.
Featured Topics
Most Popular Topics
Medical Dictionary
