Yoga Principles Course

Definition of Yoga • Yoga means "union," coming together. In modern Hatha Yoga, this is represented by combining both sides of the body — the "Ha" side — the sun (on the right) and the "Tha" side — the moon (on the left). • Another Western definition: a system of physical postures, breathing techniques, and sometimes meditation derived from yoga but often practiced independently, especially in Western cultures, to enhance physical and emotional well-being. Roots of Yoga Vedic Yoga (3000-2000 BC): • Yoga sites have been found in archaeological sites in the Indus Valley dating back to 5000 BC (Pre-Common Era). These yoga sites resemble Lord Shiva and Parvati, who perform many asanas (postures) and meditate. According to Indian tradition, Shiva is said to be the founder of yoga, and Parvati was his first disciple. Pre-Classical Yoga (2000 BC to 2nd century AD): • This period produced the Upanishads — wisdom to be learned at the foot of the teacher, which became a source of the traditions of yoga as we know them today. Classical Yoga: 5th century AD • This stage represents Raja Yoga (the eightfold path of yoga). Patanjali composed a very important text, the Yoga Sutras, in the early 2nd century, although it was not copied until the 5th century. Modern Yoga Who can practice yoga? Yoga methods Yoga philosophy Kumbhaka — breath retention Viloma Pranayama Kapalabhati Pranayama Bhastrika Pranayama Sitali Pranayama Nadhi Shodhana Pranayama Standing Asana Balance Asana Twist Asana Core awakening Asana Back Bend Asana Forward Fold Asana Hip Opener Asana Inversion Asana Savasana