WHY YOGA IS NOT JUST A FORM OF STRETCHING
Often we focus on the physical aspects of yoga and forget to pay attention to its mental and spiritual benefits. Here we give you a list of non-physical benefits of yoga.
The practice of yoga comes to us from India, where scriptures say yogis mastered this form of bodily worship to nature in order to awaken their spiritual selves. In its modern form, yes, the practice is used extensively by people short of time who want to get a nice physical stretch in their muscles, but using it only for its physical attributes is severely underusing its vast potential.
Here is a quick list on why yoga needs a holistic, patient approach.
• Yoga is not a workout. It’s a practice. It’s a potentially a way of life. The postures that yogis hold are designed for the human body and the human mind to blend with one another, leading to self-awareness, and an unlocking of untapped potential deep within.
• Yoga is a philosophy. Non-violence, truthfulness, forgiveness, cleanliness and dedication form the five pillars on which the yogi’s philosophy lies, and when practiced with diligence, can lead to a better life overall. There are yoga principles called Yamas and Niyamas, which contain truths for a more peaceful and contented life for everyone.
• Yoga will give you mental strength, resilience and clarity because when done right, it is an excellent form of meditation, which is really a way to spend time with yourself and find out what makes you tick. It’s an act of looking inward and staring into that dark abyss.
• Yoga will complement any workout schedule that you already have. While it does not need to substitute anything you’re already doing, you can incorporate the flexibility routine into your existing workout, ideally to support your strength training and cardio.
