Discover the History of Yoga

Discover the History of Yoga Yoga: Origins, History and Evolution! ChaptersThe Origins of YogaPast and present: How is Yoga Practiced in the world?Discovering Different Forms of YogaYoga is an age-old practice that has evolved over the centuries.Today, when we talk about yoga, we think of a kind of gentle gymnastics, in which you move your body in a string of easy and more difficult movements.But did you know that this has not always been the case?Going back to the origin of yoga together, we will find that there are several types of yoga, not always practised in the same way...To learn more about yoga, read our article.Sri Krishnamacharia (1888-1989): he founded a yoga school in India;K.V. Desikachar (son of Sri Krishnamacharia): he strove to make the practice known throughout the world;Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar (1918-2014): founder of Yoga Iyengar;Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois (1915-2009): teacher of Yoga Ashtanga.Integral Yoga: an example of a modern form of yoga developed by Sri Aurobindo in the early 20th century. Source: Visual hunt In the late 19th century, yoga masters began to travel to the West, sparking interest and new followers.During this period, a large number of federations and associations were created throughout the world.Among these new followers was, of course, Britain. During the mid-twentieth century the art form  became popularised, appealing to the British people due to its emphasis on both physical and spiritual wellbeing.By the end of the twentieth century it had become a mainstream activity and a huge commercialised business.In Britain, the discipline is essentially known in its Hatha Yoga form. But there are many others. Learn about all this philosophy at a yoga class in London or across the country...Discovering Different Forms of YogaLet us turn to the traditional and modern forms of yoga.You will find that there are many types, each with its own objectives, practices and exercises.Hatha YogaIn the West, Hatha Yoga is undoubtedly the most widespread form of this discipline.It consists of linking and maintaining poses, while promoting breathing and concentration. Not to mention relaxation, which is an important part of the exercise.Its goal is to work your flexibility, but also to have better stress management or improve the quality of your sleep.It's a pretty comprehensive variety.Kundalini YogaKundalini Yoga allows you to harmonise your energy centres.To achieve this, it focuses on practising yoga poses accompanied by breathing exercises, meditation and relaxation.The idea is to offer you a better physical and mental balance while strengthening your immune system and letting go of daily stress.Iyengar YogaThe Yoga Iyengar (named after its inventor: BKS Iyengar) was created a short time ago.Its principle is to offer a gentle approach to the exercise by allowing you to help yourself with equipment.Designed primarily for beginners, it also brings many physical and spiritual benefits.Prenatal YogaAs the name suggests, prenatal yoga is for pregnant women who want the r ight aids to deal with their pregnancy and childbirth.Thus, yoga postures are adapted to the changing body. Each yoga session offers different exercises that will help you to:Relax and avoid mood swings;Maintain your flexibility (or gradually improve it);Be in touch with your child and your changing body;Be calm on the delivery day through inspirational/expiratory exercises that will help you on D day;Not to mention avoiding the bodily pains that you experience during this period.Prenatal Yoga is a popular practice for women who want to prepare for childbirth. Source: PixabayBe careful though: this yoga class requires the help of a professional. It is not advisable to practice it at home, if you are not already an expert.Yoga NidraYoga Nidra is a rather unusual practice of yoga since you do not string together movements.In fact, you lie down and you enter a state close to sleep (the same as sophrology).By taking a slow, deep breath, you relax and put aside all negative feelings.If y ou have problems sleeping or if you have trouble managing your emotions, this is the type of Yoga for you!Raja YogaRaja Yoga is also called Ashtanga Yoga. It is based on 8 members who are spiritual precepts to achieve the desired state of unity.Considered the most comprehensive form, it draws from all types of yoga!Vinyasa YogaLet's finish our selection with Vinyasa Yoga, which draws heavily on Astanga Yoga.Yet, while the second consists of always performing the same series of movements, Vinyasa Yoga is much freer.Very energetic, you follow your yogi master who links poses one after the other, in a fluid and rhythmic way.Therefore, you need to be a decent athlete to be able to have a go at it.In any case, it allows you to sculpt your body without building it up (unlike bodybuilding) while eliminating any superfluous fat that has accumulated.Obviously, there are many others that we invite you to discover at your own pace.To start practising today, find associations for yoga near me.W hat do I do if there are no classes for yoga near me? There are also individual teachers or groups you can join.In any case, if you feel overwhelmed by stress and if it affects your body, give yourself a break in life. You will soon see the benefits.