Yoga Intro

Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years and consists of ancient theories, observations and principles regarding the connection of the mind with the body. The ancient Indian sage systemized yoga philosophy into eight paths or limbs: yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, samadhi. These limbs each express a different aspect of yoga and combined make up the path or yoga practice that unites the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels of our being.

Yama - Yama are ethical disciplines that relate to how we can live in a shared world with peace and integrity. Niyama - These disciplines relate to the individual and focus on living a healthy, fulfilled and masterful life. Asana - The word asana means ‘to be’, in the sense of being in a posture. The asanas were developed for the maintenance of a healthy mind and body, with each posture affecting the body, mind and emotions in a unique way and working as a pathway to balance and wellbeing. Pranayama - In the practice of pranayama, we develop breathing techniques that increase oxygen intake and strengthen lung capacity while also increasing the absorption of prana, or life force. In its simplest form, pranayama involves deep, full breathing. Dharana - Following on from pratyahara, dharana is the ability to be completely internally absorbed and focused. This practice of single-pointed concentration stills the mind and leads to profound quietness within. Dhyana - Following on from dharana is dhyana, or meditation – sitting where there is no focus, just stillness; no thoughts, only emptiness. Samadhi - In this state of absolute personal freedom there is union of the individual soul with the universal soul. It is the practice of living at one with all that is.

With regular yoga practice of yoga, you will get strength, flexibility and good health, the benefits of which flow into all aspects of life. Increased energy levels bring a new perspective on life, the increased feelings of self-love and inspiration lead us to discover talents and interests we never knew existed and problems that once seemed overwhelming become more manageable.

Starting yoga

To achieve the yoga glow-like zen, we have to start somewhere. Here are a few tips and products to help you start out small, and end up happy and limber with a glow all your own. Try using a yoga strap Using straps can really help you get into those tougher poses that require the flexibility that you just don't have yet. The yoga strap will allow you to put the resistance where you need it. For example, you can use straps to connect one arm to the other, extend your reach from your feet, and many other tricks.

Yoga Bolsters for back support

Bolsters are firm long and narrow pillows normally filled with a dense cotton and designed specifically to help support you tummy and back during your yoga practice. Bolsters can really come in handy for poses that require a lot of core strength. Another great use for them is to put them under your knees for support as you rest

Select the right mat
Selecting a mat can be overwhelming. They come in thin, thick, cotton, short, long, and wide. For starters I'd recommend getting a skidless thick and long yoga mat. This will provide the comfort and stability for getting the hang of the traditional poses you'll learn right away.

Yoga Blocks

Yoga blocks come in all shapes and sizes, and are mostly used to modify a pose or to provide support for your hands and feet for those poses where you can't quite stretch to the extent you want. Blocks can bring the stretch destination closer to you until you reach your flexibility goals.

These are just a few of the yoga props you can use when starting out, and can even serve you in your yoga practice over the years to come. Just remember that yoga is a very personal exercise, you set your own limits, and you set your own boundaries. You will only improve at the rate to which you push yourself.