The Sanskrit word Yoga means Union, an entryway to balancing the spiritual, mental and physical aspects of the being. This is the most ancient holistic practice for an individual's personal growth and development, known to man. This is a philosophy and a science that has been in practice for almost 5000 years now. This form of body conditioning emphasizes stimulation of the soul along with strengthening the mind and body.

Yogi and Yogini refer to male and female practitioners of yoga respectively. In Indian philosophy, there are six orthodox systems and this system is one of them, being a practice that ensures health for the body and the mind. It is a vast subject and contains a great deal more than just sitting around in a lotus position just chanting along in unison.

Yoga is one of the best stress busters. It is also very effective in back problems and posture related problems. The main reason this complementary therapy is used with cancer patients is the feeling of wellness it bestows. Many feel that the best time to perform the discipline is on an empty stomach, before any food is consumed in the morning.

There are many types of this ancient practice, a few of them are stated below: Raja Yoga: The chief component of this style is meditation. Raja yoga which is one of the four main paths of yoga provides aids to control one's mind, body, energy and senses. Kundalini Yoga - This is very popular and is a safe and unstressed practice, providing quick results. It is founded on specially devised sets of exercises known as kriyas. We also have Hatha Yoga which is an extremely wonderful system that is comprised of breath control and postures; it is the basis for all of the modern asana based discipline forms. The Sahaja yoga is based on the experience of self realization that resides within each individual. This is a unique way of meditating. Moksha hot yoga is an exclusive method which has the combination of healing yoga and the basics of conventional yoga and this is practiced in an especially heated room.

Yoga is getting famous nowadays and is being practiced by both the young as well as the old people as it is good for people of all ages. Yoga has become the fastest growing and most popular exercise trend of all because it isn't something that is necessarily done to you as it is something that you do. During pregnancy this is one of the best activities you can do safely. You build flexibility and endurance and it is gentle on the body. Yoga is becoming popular among soldiers who are keen in working on their stamina, mental focus and flexibility as per Fit Yoga and the Associated Press. This discipline brings about a general well-being and inner harmony and physical exercise is not its end.