The ancient mystical practice and spiritual path of Yoga is believed to date back to the 8th century BC, the main sources of its concepts being Indian texts such as Upanishad and the Mahabharata. Although, seals from as distant a time as a thousand years earlier depicting yoga and meditation like postures were discovered by archaeologists at the Indus Valley Civilization site and many scientists think these drawings suggest a precursor of Yoga.

In essence, the aim of the spiritual path of Yoga is achieving a union with the Supreme Consciousness or even loftier goals set by some Yogis who are practitioners of Yoga. However, outside India it is most commonly associated with the practice of postures and or as a form of exercise. It can certainly have its advantages in both cases.

Raja Yoga is one of six orthodox astika, schools of thought, in Hindu philosophy. The term Yoga is derived from Sanskrit, its root word can be translated a number of ways. For instance, it is most commonly taken to mean uniting or joining, but sometimes it is understood as mode, manner, means. With so many varied systems of Yoga philosophy, similar to sects of Christianity, there may really be something for everyone to identify with and take to heart, but as mentioned before it is generally practiced in the western world today for health and wellbeing.

Practising Yoga postures regularly can help to ensure optimum blood flow and supply throughout your body while massaging your various organs and gently stretching your joints and muscles. Yoga may increase the flexibility of the practitioner by exercising little used joints and also help to lubricate different tendons and ligaments in the body of the practitioner. This can even be done by beginners with non strenuous positions.

It is also suggested that by regularly messaging organs within our body which tend to not receive any external stimulation during everyday activity, we can become more aware of our bodies and more quickly and easily sense early onset symptoms of disease and infection, enabling us to take sooner action and better control of our physical health.

In addition, increasing and enhancing blood flow throughout the body of the practitioner can help to flush out toxins, which may lead to decreased ageing, increased energy, and essentially enhance the practitioners quality of life. Not to mention this valuable exercise can tone your muscles and trim excess body fat.

I know, in spite of the vast multitude of benefits that Yoga can offer for your mind, body and soul, you still may not want to join an expensive class, or wear something like a leotard in a room full of strangers. Breathe easy, the above is not necessary at all, you can try it for yourself in the comfort of your own home by taking advantage of one of many available resources such as dvds, videos, or books which can help you to get started and build confidence before you try it in a group situation. Good luck and namaste.