The literal meaning of the word, Yoga is derived from “Yuj”, a Sanskrit term which means to unite or join. In practice, Yoga aims to unite a person’s heart, mind and body so that the individual can lead a happy, balanced and purposeful life. It also aims to increase the individual’s spiritual awareness and his relation with the objects around him and divine force of the universe.
In India, Yoga has been in practice since ancient times. According to Hindu legends, Yoga was first revealed by Lord Shiva. But it was the Rishis or Sages who were the main practitioners of Yoga. They were eager to know more about the human mind, body and soul. They found Yoga to be a very powerful medium to succeed in their endeavor.
The body faces several threats from different elements and diseases. The mind is always creating illusions that distracts a person and makes him chase meaningless objects of desire. Yoga helps the individual in controlling the mind and ridding the body of its afflictions. Its ultimate goal is to help an individual realize his true self and divine origin.
Today, Yoga is practiced by people all over the world for a healthy body and mind. In recent times, our relentlessly hectic life with continuous stress, Yoga Aasans have proved to be a great boon to people who have very little time for themselves. With proper guidance and a little time devoted to regular Yoga practice, a person can lead a very stress free, healthy and meaningful existence.