{"id":10040,"date":"2019-06-11T05:41:03","date_gmt":"2019-06-11T05:41:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trifocusfitnessacademy.co.za\/?p=10040"},"modified":"2022-08-17T10:15:06","modified_gmt":"2022-08-17T08:15:06","slug":"what-is-yoga","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trifocusfitnessacademy.co.za\/yoga-blog\/what-is-yoga\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Yoga?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Yoga<\/a> is one of the most popular forms of exercise around the world. Our favourite celebrities swear by it, glossy magazines rave about it and even our personal trainers at the gym recommend it. But what exactly is it? And should you be doing it? Let\u2019s a take a look\u2026<\/p>\n

The Origins of Yoga<\/h2>\n

The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word\u00a0yuj <\/em>and refers to a group of physical, mental and spiritual practices or disciplines which originated in ancient India.<\/p>\n

The ancient practice outlined eight limbs of yoga: restraints, observances, postures, breathing, withdrawal of senses, concentration, meditation<\/a> and absorption. These eight limbs serve as a philosophical guidebook for most of the yoga that is practiced today.<\/p>\n

As yoga became more of a mainstream practice, people began to focus on the third limb, which is a set of physical postures designed to provide the physical strength and stamina required for long periods of meditation.<\/p>\n

What Makes Yoga Different From Regular Stretching?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Although a lot of focus is placed on physical postures when practising yoga, it is a lot more than being able to hold a cool-looking pose. Yoga uses the movement of the body to calm the mind and regulate the rhythm of our breathing<\/a>.<\/p>\n

By connecting the mind, body and breathing we are able to direct our attention inward. This helps us to become more aware of our experiences in each moment. This increased awareness is what makes yoga a unique practice rather than a basic stretching routine.<\/p>\n

Can I Do Yoga If I\u2019m Not Flexible?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A common misconception is that you need to have an existing level of flexibility to practise yoga. This is not true. Think of it this way: you don\u2019t need to be an expert piano player to take piano lessons. To start doing yoga, just sign up for a course and learn as you go. In time you will become more flexible, more coordinated, and stronger. You will also have a sense of physical confidence and well-being.<\/p>\n

Does Yoga Require Any Special Gear or Equipment?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Yoga is a simple practice that doesn\u2019t ask for much. All you need is your body and mind. If you\u2019re just starting make sure your clothes are comfy (like leggings, a shirt that\u2019s not too baggy). A non-slip yoga mat is the only real piece of equipment you need.<\/p>\n

\"Trifocus<\/h2>\n

The Benefits Of Yoga<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Yoga is a very effective low-impact workout<\/a>. So it\u2019s not surprising that it has loads of amazing physical benefits. These include the following:<\/p>\n