Yoga Classes
Introduction
Yoga is an ancient physical and spiritual discipline and branch of philosophy that originated in
India reportedly more than 5,000 years ago. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word yuj,
which means to yoke, join, or unite. The Iyengar school of yoga defines yuj as the "joining or
integrating of all aspects of the individual - body with mind and mind with soul - to achieve a
happy, balanced and useful life." The ultimate aim of yoga, they claim, is to reach kaivalya
(emancipation or ultimate freedom).
There is no written record of who invented yoga because it was practiced by yogis (yoga
practitioners) long before any written account of it could have come into existence. Yogis over
the millennia passed down the discipline to their students, and many different schools of yoga
developed as it spread. The earliest written record of yoga, and one of the oldest texts in
existence, is generally believed to have been written by Patanjali, an Indian yogic sage who
lived somewhere between 2,000 and 2,500 years ago. Patanjali is credited with writing the Yoga
Sutras (sutra means "thread" in Sanskrit), which are the principles, philosophy, and practices
of yoga that are still followed today. Although many schools of yoga have evolved over the
centuries, they all follow these same fundamental principles. Buddhism and other Eastern
spiritual traditions use many of the yoga techniques or derivations of those techniques.
Children spend most of their time shunting between homework and school related extra-curricular
activities. There's little time for free play. They face over stimulation; distractions; and
academic and peer pressure too early in life. Plus they're plagued by their own insecurities and
fears. Yoga can help children deal with this pressure-cooker environment. And infuse energy and
confidence into their personalities.
Yoga develops awareness of body, mind and breath.
Helps arrest a child's wandering mind. Builds attention span and concentration power.
Augments imagination and creativity.
Relieves mental and physical fatigue. Boosts energy levels and provides deep relaxation too.
Helps overcome negative emotions like jealousy, fear and anger.
Fosters a positive self image and increases confidence.
Increases breathing and lung capacity.
Exercises, strengthens and lengthens different muscles in the body.
Encourages healthy food habits. A blessing for parents who have to deal with picky eaters and
junk food addiction
Reduces obsession with TV and other electronic devices