Yoga Exercises

Yoga, the ancient discipline that originated in India, is not just a form of exercise, but a way of life that involves the mind, body and soul. Yoga has been in use through the ages and is mentioned in a number of ancient Hindu scriptures including the Bhagawad Gita, the Vedas and the Upanishads, although it has now gained global popularity and world wide renown. Yoga exercises focus not only on the body, but also, when correctly practiced, help in disciplining the mind. It is not only posture that is to be mastered, but control of the mental faculties as well - this is considerably more difficult, but perseverance and discipline, along with diligent practice can help you reap the many and varied benefits of yoga. There are many different types of yoga, including Hatha yoga, which is the basis of most westernized yoga exercise and postures. Listed below are some basic exercises, along with targeted exercises for specific aches and pains.

Exercises for Beginners

Yoga postures or poses are known as asanas, and there are a number of poses that you can begin with, which, as you practice, will enable you to increase your range of motion and flexibility. Yoga exercises are neither high intensity, nor forceful. In fact, one of the fundamental tenets of yoga, is that it should be performed without jerky movements, and with grace and comfort. Many asanas focus on a particular pattern of breathing exercises to maximize the benefits of the posture, and advise that movements remain controlled and slow. The following are some basic exercises that you can start with:

Suryanamaskara
The suryanamaskara or sun salutation, is one of the basic beginner yoga positions, and when done correctly is a full body workout as well as a stretching routine. Traditionally performed facing the rising sun, it is made up of twelve poses, which are performed in a seamless pattern, in flowing succession. It is typically performed in two sets, with a change in the opposing leg, but the same set of postures, as a form of worship of the Sun God, Surya.

Bhujangasana
Also known as the Cobra pose, the Bhujangasana is one of the best yoga exercises for back pain. It increases spinal flexibility and strength, and targets the chest, lungs and abdomen as well.

The following are some additional inputs for beginners, that can help you kick off your routine:

• Basics of Yoga
• Beginning Yoga Routine
• Basic Yoga Poses for Beginners
• Beginner Yoga Poses

Exercises for Kids

As with all things to be learned, it's best to start off early when learning yoga - children's bodies are invariably more flexible, and this flexibility will stand them in good stead when learning yoga poses especially for kids. You could also read related articles on. yoga poses for kids.

Exercises for Weight Loss

Power yoga is now the new buzzword for those who look to yoga for weight loss. Unlike the gentler asanas that are the basis of Hatha yoga poses, Power Yoga uses the more austere and rigorous Ashtanga yoga postures as the basis for a routine. Ashtanga, literally 'eight limbs' in Sanskrit, is a form of yoga that focuses, apart from breathing patterns and the asanas, on the flow that connects one posture to the next. It is a more advanced form of yoga, and is helpful to attain a flat stomach. The following are some examples, of the postures that would help you achieve this: aim:

• Dhanurasana
• Paschimottanasana
• Padangusthasana
• Sarvangasana
• Pavan Muktasana

Exercises to Promote Health and Well-being

Ashtanga Yoga can also be modified and combined with a more rigorous exercise routine, starting from a yoga warm-up, through advanced poses; some routines may even incorporate ball exercises in yoga meant to be done in a standing posture. Apart from the various health benefits derived from yoga, this form of exercise can also be used as a targeted treatment for a number of ailments ranging from sciatica, to carpal tunnel syndrome. Practicing yoga as part of your daily routine is a lifestyle change that can only do you good. Here's some additional information that will help:

• Advanced Yoga Poses
• Yoga Ball Exercises
• Yoga for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Yoga Through Pregnancy

Because of its low impact and calming nature, yoga is also considered a safe form of exercise. In fact there are specific poses that are taught in a number of Lamaze classes, in preparation for childbirth. This form of exercise helps in calming the mind and body, and will enhance the experience of spirituality. Here's some detailed information on yoga exercises that may be performed by pregnant women:

• Yoga for Pregnant Women
• Prenatal Yoga Poses

Yoga and Meditation

Yoga also teaches meditation techniques and deep breathing exercises that can help in stress relief. Apart from the fitness factor that will, no doubt help in increasing stamina and overall health, yoga can also aid in strengthening muscles and joints in a low impact form of exercise that is suitable for all age groups. Following is some information on yoga meditation and some exercises for stress relief:

• Yoga Nidra Meditation
• Stress Relief Yoga

Incorporating yoga into your daily life can bring about slow but gradual changes for the better. You will find yourself calmer, mentally stronger, and revitalized from within. It can help guard against diseases, increase flexibility and reduce stress. Performed correctly, yoga can benefit both body and mind.