It is well known in modern physiology that in our human system large number of cells get formed continuously and equal number of cells get destroyed. Medical researchers have found that in about seven years almost all the cells in our body get replaced.
Prana refers to the life-force or the vital energy, which is responsible for all the functions, physical and mental, in the human being. Ayama refers to the ability to control your body by stretching, expanding, and elaborating. Hence, pranayama refers to the control of prana by stretching it. Breathing is the means through which control of prana is brought about. While in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, breathing is emphasized in pranayama practices; in Hatha Yoga, retention or kumbhak is emphasized. In fact, Swatmarama in Hatha Pradipika refers to eight varieties of kumbhak, instead of pranayama. These eight varieties are as follows:
The development of yoga can be traced back to over 5,000 years ago but some researchers think that yoga may be have existed even 10,000 years back.
In group yoga classes the instructor will guide you through different poses; stretching to warm up, breathing to stimulate the body, postures to increase muscular strength and flexibility, meditation to deepen relaxation and to re energize. It is a holistic approach to strengthen all body functions.
Unconditional and intense love for God is Bhakti. Bhakti Yoga is the yoga of devotion. It emphasizes the opening of the head to divine love, the union of lover (the yogi) and beloved (the divine).
