by Shen-Li Lee

Created on: November 09, 2009   Last Updated: December 23, 2009

"Yoga" comes from the Sanskrit word "yuj," which means "to unite" or "integrate." The basic purpose of yoga is to unite an individual's consciousness with the universal consciousness. The belief is that in order for an individual to have harmony between "self" and the environment, there must be assimilation between the body, mind and spirit. Yoga aims to integrate emotion, action and intelligence through exercise, breathing and meditation.

The very nature of yoga focuses on treating the body with care and respect, thus, yoga exercises target to improve circulation, stimulate the abdominal organs and the glandular system of the body to improve overall health. Proper breathing technique during yoga helps to prepare the mind for meditation. When physical poses, breathing and meditation are combined together, it helps to relieve everyday stress.

There are many benefits an individual can derive from practicing yoga. The top ten benefits are summarized below:

1. Increased energy.

Through breath control and the various asanas performed, yoga helps to lower heart rate and increase overall endurance. The increased oxygen intake provides the energy required by the body to maximize the body's potential.

2. Flexibility.

The practice of yoga increases flexibility by relaxing the muscles, tendons and ligaments in the body. The increased flexibility helps to prevent injuries and ensure the overall health of the joints of the body.

3. Increased strength.

The various yoga asanas help to strengthen all the muscles in the body through basic resistance exercises. In combination with the increase in joint flexibility and range of motion, this helps to build muscle strength, muscle mass and muscle tone. With dedicated yoga practice, over time, the body's stamina and endurance will also increase.

4. Cardiovascular conditioning.

The increased heart and breathing rates that occur during the practice of yoga make it an effective exercise for cardiovascular conditioning. Through breath control, yoga also helps to increase lung capacity and oxygen intake.

5. Emotional benefits.

Through meditation, yoga helps an individual achieve inner peace with a greater awareness and appreciation for the moment. It calms the mind allowing for improved sleep, and more positive thoughts and emotions.

6. Mental benefits.

Yoga meditation helps to bring mental calmness, focus and clarity of the mind. This in turn translates to improved concentration, which is beneficial for work and leisure activities.

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