In the modern world when most of us lead a very sedentary life and gorge on junk foods with no time for some elementary exercises, diseases like heart problem, blood sugar, and so on are common. Yoga has proven its effectiveness in keeping these and various other health problems at bay. A mere twenty minutes of yoga can do the magic.

There are a number of yoga postures to suit the varied needs of different people. It is difficult to discuss them in a single article but an attempt has been made to discuss some of the more common and effective yoga poses. Yoga is not only a form of exercise for the body but involves the well-being of the mind as well as internal organs of an individual. If followed properly and with total devotion, it is an ideal cure for many physical as well as mental diseases.

One of the well-known benefits of yoga is meditation, which relaxes the mind, enhances concentration, and helps an individual to perform his task better. There are different types of yoga like Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Tantra Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga. All form of yoga insists that you follow it religiously. It is best to perform yoga early in the morning just after you wake up since the mind remains most peaceful during that time.

There are various yoga poses that may be categorized as beginners' yoga poses, intermediate yoga poses, advanced yoga poses, etc. Some of the yoga poses are discussed in detail here. Pavana-mukta-asana is especially beneficial in releasing trapped digestive gas from the stomach and intestines. For this, you will need to lie down in a relaxed manner. After inhaling, bend your right knee and bring it to your chest with your hands while keeping the fingers interlocked all the time. Keep your left leg straight. Hold your breath for a few seconds and then exhaling, lift your head, and try to touch the knee with your forehead. Remain in that position for a few seconds and then return your head back to the floor and inhale. Then bring the right leg back to the floor. Repeat the same with the left leg.

Another yoga pose, which is beneficial for the lower back, abdomen, and chest, is vriksasana where you will need to stand with both feet touching from the heel to the toe. You should stand erect with your back straight and the arms should press loosely against the sides with palms facing inward. Hands should clasp together at the palms near the chest. Take your right foot to the inside of your left thigh (knee bent) and raise your hands above your head in a prayer position.

The thunderbolt or the diamond pose is another common type of yoga poses and is equally easy to perform. It is actually a seated posture that requires you to sit with your legs folded under you. Keep your back erect and place your hands on your knees. Your eyes should be fixed on a point in front of you. Breathe normally and remain in that position as long as you can.

Different yoga poses are there and you should choose only those that you feel comfortable performing. It is very important that different yoga poses be done correctly in order to benefit. In addition, there are some yoga poses, which you should avoid if you are suffering from back pain or from some other problems.