The word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India where yoga originated, over five thousand of years ago. We can think of the union occurring between mind, body and spirit. Many people think that yoga is stretching. But while stretching is certainly involved, yoga is really about creating balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility.

Yoga methods encompass the entire field of our existence, from the physical, emotional and mental to the spiritual. Its methods include ethical disciplines, physical postures, breath control, as well as meditation.

• Helps us focus.
• Relieves everyday stress.
• Improvement in circulation.
• Overall better health.
• Meditation techniques promote inner peace.
• Weight reduction.

Classical yoga as defined by Patanjali is an eight stages process of spiritual development (the eight limbs of yoga). The first two stages are ethical disciplines (Yamas and Nyamas). Then come postures (Asanas in Sanskrit) and breathing exercises (Pranayama). The last four limbs are meditative stages: control of the sense (Prathyara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana) and enlightenment (Samadhi).

Yoga is for anyone, from beginner to advanced, who is open to learn new ways in exercising. It does not require any special clothes or specific equipment. A yoga mat is helpful though. Yoga encourages you to reflect on yourself through meditation and breathing exercises. It techniques works on your entire body including your mind as well.

An option to yoga classes in gyms and health clubs throughout the United Kingdom are yoga dvds and Videos. They allow you to learn and practice the posing exercises from the comfort and ease of your own home.

Good Luck in your yoga exercise classes, be it at home or in the gym with an experienced instructor!