Yoga is a way of life and a philosophy of living that makes every effort for balance between the mind, body and spirit. It helps a person to maintain healthy and active state. The word Yoga means union and suggests the union of the body, mind, and spirit. Guru Patanjali, who wrote Yoga Suthra, is known as the father of Yoga. The doctrines and practices of Yoga date from the period of the Upanishads.Hatha Yoga consists of a series of asanas (postures),which provide flexibility to the body and tones its muscles.

The combination of various asanas can provide a complete workout and provide both physical and mental relaxation. The concentration and mental discipline as well as the breathing exercises of Yoga are an essential part of the practice of Yoga. The Ashtanga Yoga (eight stages) developed by Guru Patanjali is a complete plan for the holistic development of an individual. They are (1) Yama (self-control), (2) Niyama (Religious observance). (3) Asana (Postures), (4) Pranayama (Regulation of the breath), (5) Prathyahara (restraint of the senses), (6) Dharana (steadying of the mind), (7) Dhyana (meditation), and (8) Samadhi (profound contemplation) The achievement of samadhi liberates one from the illusions of sense and the contradictions of reason. It leads to an inner illumination, the ecstasy of the true knowledge of reality.

The advanced practitioner of yoga can control his or her blood pressure, and yoga has been proved to help patients with diabetes, hypertension and arthritis. The healing powers of yoga, when practiced correctly with the help of a guru can help you achieve a better union of mind, body and spirit.