Yoga, a timeless practice rooted in ancient India, has been embraced by millions across the globe for its ability to nurture both mind and body. At Om Asana Yoga, we believe that yoga offers a transformative journey for anyone seeking to enhance their well-being. But what is yoga, and how can it improve your life? Let’s take a journey through the origins, benefits, and unique aspects of this holistic practice.

The Origins of Yoga

Over 5,000 years ago in northern India, yoga emerged as a path toward mental clarity and physical well-being. The term “yoga” first appeared in the Rig Veda, India’s oldest sacred text, a collection of hymns and mantras used during the Vedic age. Over time, sages known as Rishis expanded upon these teachings, documenting their insights in the Upanishads, a collection of over 200 scriptures.

Yoga became one of Hinduism’s six core philosophies and later influenced Buddhism, weaving itself into the spiritual fabric of the East. This rich heritage continues to inspire practitioners worldwide, including those at Om Asana Yoga.

What Makes Hatha Yoga Stand Out?

Among the various yoga styles, Hatha yoga stands out for its focus on understanding and respecting the body. At Om Asana Yoga, we emphasise this approach, combining physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and relaxation practices to promote health and longevity.

I was fortunate to receive my training from Saraswati, who was taught by Swami Vishnu Devananda, a revered master of Hatha Yoga, and Swami Sivapremanda, a direct disciple of the world-renowned Swami Sivananda. This lineage of wisdom and dedication to the practice deeply influences the teachings at Om Asana Yoga, ensuring that each session reflects the authenticity and spiritual depth passed down through generations of esteemed yoga masters.

Hatha yoga emphasises the journey over the destination. There’s no need for perfection in poses—what matters is mindful movement and self-awareness. As the Yogabhashya beautifully puts it, “The posture becomes perfect when the effort of achieving it vanishes.”

Through Hatha yoga, practitioners embody the principle of ahimsa (non-violence), treating their bodies with care and respect. At Om Asana Yoga, we guide you through each pose, following a rhythm: entering, holding, and exiting with the breath as a guide. Visualising the benefits of each asana deepens the connection between body and mind, fostering emotional resilience and mental clarity.

Understanding Yoga Terminology

For those new to yoga, the Sanskrit terminology may feel unfamiliar at first. At Om Asana Yoga, we help you understand key terms, such as:

• Asana: Originally meaning “seat,” asana now refers to the physical postures of yoga. For example, Caturanga Dandasana (low plank) strengthens the arms, shoulders, and core.
• Pranayama: A combination of “prana” (life force) and “ayama” (control), pranayama encompasses breathing techniques that remove obstacles within the body and mind. One example is Ujjayi (victorious breath), which creates a soothing, ocean-like sound to calm and centre the practitioner.
• Om: In yoga, Om (or Aum) is a sacred sound and symbol that represents the essence of the universe. It is believed to be the primordial sound from which all creation originated. Om embodies the totality of existence, encompassing creation, preservation, and dissolution. The sound of Om is made up of three syllables: A (representing the waking state, physical world, and creation), U (signifying the dream state, inner world, and preservation), and M (symbolising deep sleep or transcendence, and ultimate dissolution). After the chant of Om, a period of silence follows, which signifies the unmanifested state beyond thought and duality. This silence represents pure consciousness or the ultimate reality. The Om symbol (ॐ) visually encapsulates these aspects and is commonly used in yoga and spiritual practices to create a connection with the universe. Chanting Om in yoga is often used to centre the mind, align breath and body, and foster a sense of unity with the universe. It has a calming, grounding effect, enhancing meditation and promoting higher consciousness.

At Om Asana Yoga, we chant Om at the end of each practice to seal the session, creating a sense of closure and completeness. This final chant allows practitioners to absorb the benefits of the practice, aligning the mind, body, and spirit in peaceful harmony. It also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things and the ultimate unity with the universe, bringing a sense of calm and inner peace to conclude the practice.

The Benefits of Yoga Postures

Yoga’s foundational postures bring transformative benefits, including:

• Improved flexibility and muscle strength
• Better spinal alignment and posture
• Enhanced circulation and energy flow
• Uplifted mood and mental clarity

Om Asana Yoga focuses on Hatha yoga’s gentle and adaptable approach, making it particularly accessible for beginners and individuals of all abilities. By focusing on mindful movement rather than perfecting poses, we create a nurturing space for both body and mind.

How Yoga Reached the West

The journey of yoga to the West began in 1893 when Swami Vivekananda introduced it as a “science of the mind” at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago. Swami Yogendra later brought Hatha yoga to America in 1919, focusing on its physical health benefits.

Although immigration restrictions slowed yoga’s spread in the early 20th century, the policy changes of the 1960s opened the doors for a new wave of yoga teachers. One notable figure, B.K.S. Iyengar, captivated television audiences with his demonstrations, showcasing yoga’s accessibility and universal appeal.

Why Yoga Is Life-Changing

Today, yoga is a global phenomenon, seamlessly blending into modern lifestyles while retaining its ancient wisdom. At Om Asana Yoga, we see yoga as more than just a physical practice—it is a sanctuary from the stresses of daily life. It cultivates mindfulness, emotional resilience, and inner peace, leaving practitioners feeling stronger, calmer, and more connected to themselves.

As yoga continues to evolve, it remains a practice that embraces diversity and fosters well-being for all. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, Om Asana Yoga offers a path to joy, balance, and a deeper connection to life.

At Om Asana Yoga, we believe yoga is for everyone. Begin your journey today and discover how this ancient art can transform your life.

For more insights into the ancient origins and evolution of yoga, visit Google Arts & Culture: Explore the Ancient Roots of Yoga.