Yoga FAQs WHAT IS YOGA? Yoga means "union". It can be thought of as the union between mind and body, individual and universal, yin and yang, masculine and feminine, etc. Patanjali describes yoga as the "cessation of the turnings of the mind", i.e., a way to quiet the mind and find peace physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In Anusara Yoga, Yoga is thought of as a way to flow from the heart, celebrate life and celebrate one's intrinsic goodness. What's important is that it means something to you, whether you are practicing for physical health, balance, recovery, devotion, clarity, relaxation, connection, spirituality, or any other possibility. What we typically think of as yoga in the West is Asana, the practice of physical postures. This is sometimes referred to as Hatha Yoga. Yoga can also include breath control (pranayama), meditation, rules for living (yama/niyama), sound (mantra), and visualization. WHO CAN PRACTICE YOGA? Anyone! As long as you honor your own body, yoga can be for anyone. WHY PRACTICE YOGA? Increase strength and flexibility Increase energy Improve breathing Improve circulation Improve elimination Sleep better Reduce Stress Calm the mind Heal/Prevent back pain Prevent illness/injury Increase body awareness Reduce the signs of aging Learn to heal yourself Detoxify Feel Empowered Increase your capacity for love Create freedom in your body Lubricate joints and ligaments Balance the endocrine system Increase focus and concentration Improve your job, your relationships, and your life Connect with something greater Find purpose Find balance Find yourself