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Origins
From its Indian origins as far back as 4000 years ago, yoga has been continually practised, but it is only in the present century that its use has become more widespread outside of India. Yoga has an effect on the whole person, combining the physical, mental and spiritual sides. The word 'yoga' is derived from the Sanskrit word that means 'union', and thus reflects on the practice of yoga being total in effect. It is considered to be a philosophy, a science and an art and in its complete form proposes how to live a worthy and satisfying life.
Eight Aspects
Yoga has eight clearly defined aspects. The first two concern a person's lifestyle, which should be serene with the days spent in contemplation, study and living simply and at peace with others. The third and fourth parts are concerned with physical matters and list a number of exercises ('asanas') designed to promote peace and infuse energy both into the body and mind. These asanas keep the body cleansed and fit and are considered essential for the speedy removal of toxins and for keeping blood circulation and all internal processes running smoothly. Having dealt with the physical side of life, the remaining four sections are concerned with the advancement of a person's soul or spirit. Here different breathing exercises or techniques quieten the mind and brain, offering inner peace by detaching oneself from outside worries and an ability to face upheavals and deal with problems.
The Breath
It is a belief in yoga that the body's essence of life ('prana') is contained in the breath. Through a change in the way of breathing there can be a beneficial effect on the general health. In a heightened emotional state, there will be an effect on breathing (usual fast and shallow). Thus, applied in reverse, if the breath is controlled or altered, there should be generated a corresponding effect emotionally or mentally, such as promoting joint feelings of peace and calm. When people are in an anxious state, we automatically often ask them to 'slow down and take deep breaths'. There are a variety of exercises and movements, each promoting different types of breathing, and encouraging the mind to become more aware of the breath. These stances aim to increase freedom of movement and make the person aware of the various parts of the body and any stress that may be present.
Different schools
Different schools of yoga through the ages have stressed different aspects, but all branches have a common ideological basis, of seeking the betterment of the individual, and, in a broader context, of humanity. In the West, it is primarily the form of yoga involving the physical exercises and positions that has grown in popularity ('hatha' yoga). The other methods concentrate on matters such as control over the mind and a morally correct way of life, also considered essential for a person completely committed to a complete yogic way of life.
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