The term Hatha was first recorded in the 11th century, but it wasn't until the late 19th century that it came to American, gaining mainstream popularity in the 1960s. Yoga’ is a Sanskrit term meaning ‘to join, unite, or yoke together’, and the essential purpose of yoga is to bring together body, mind, and spirit into a harmonious whole. The central methods of yoga are physical postures or ‘asanas’ and movement, breathing techniques, or ‘pranayama’ and meditation. Yoga includes guidance on a healthy lifestyle, eating habits, mental attitude, and Ayurvedic medicine is also part of the Yogic path to health and balance.
Benefits of Yoga
Calm and clarity Greater confidence and generally more positive mood Sense of inner well-being and & ; centredness’ Increased awareness of body and movement Counters depression and anxiety Ability to concentrate improves More self-acceptance Increased social skills