The Sanskrit term “yoga” is frequently translated as “union,” the ultimate goal of which is to create a union of the body, mind and spirit. The basic principles of yoga include proper poses, breathing, relaxation, diet, positive thinking and meditation.

    Song Yingwen

    Many of us are swept up in the current of life, running from one activity to the next. It is hard to settle down. We head to the couch to relax, but get distracted and end up flipping through TV channels. We turn off the computer and pick up the phone. This is what some Buddhists call “habit energy.” It is pulling us along and we are unaware of its power over us. We bring our restlessness to every aspect of our lives, rushing through tasks. Our body is there, but we are not experiencing life — our mind is lurching ahead into the future.

    Yoga, as a lifestyle, may make us aware of the power of these habit energies, and may help us overcome them.

    Yes, yoga is a lifestyle. It goes far beyond a one-hour course in a gym and is definitely not an aerobic exercise. If you think the purpose of yoga poses is to build a healthy body, you are only partly correct. The influence of yoga, according to experienced Indian teacher of meditation Sir Prem Siddharth, goes through our body and reaches our mind, and ultimately influences our life in a positive way. “Yoga is a science that leads to a healthy body, peaceful mind, joyous heart and liberated soul,” said Siddharth.

    How does that happen? It all begins with a sense of consciousness. Through meditation, breathing and yoga poses, we learn to bring consciousness to our bodies. When switching from one posture to another, we learn to feel how our bodies feel and learn to concentrate on and control the way our bodies act. By practicing it day after day, we come to a full awareness of the changes that took place in our bodies: less body pain and stress, stronger muscles, enhanced flexibility, a growing sense of harmony and balance, and a healthy, elegant figure.

    The list of benefits expands as we bring this consciousness and concentration to daily life, to the way we behave, and ultimately, to our thinking patterns. By building consciousness and concentration in ourselves, we will be aware of our thoughts, distinguishing the positive from the unconstructive ones. In this way it helps clarify our deepest cravings, motivations and aspirations, thereby restoring confidence, hope, meaning and reason to life.

    Although in China, yoga is mostly promoted as a fashionable activity for young women, it is never restricted to any age or gender. Having said that, special guidance is suggested for children under 14 and pregnant women. Unlike in other sports, high blood pressure and heart disease are not barriers. According to experienced yoga teacher Zhang Fan of CATIC Physical Club, the largest wellness training franchise in Shenzhen, yoga might be the best therapy for people with chronic health problems. It increases the lubrication of joints, ligaments and tendons of the body in safe positions. Medical studies suggest that yoga is the most comprehensive form of physical exercise, because it is good for every internal organ and glands. This in turn reduces the risk of many diseases.

    Do men need yoga? Certainly. Yoga is the perfect way to release pressure and ensure overall physical fitness. Through meditation and breathing exercises, we can banish stress. In fact, it is one of the best remedies for curing chronic ailments that medical science has not yet fully learnt how to cure. The fact that men have more strength than women gives them an advantage.

    What comes to mind when you think of yoga? Stretching probably. Half of you must have run away from yoga, with the thought that you are unfit, too old or maybe too inflexible to perform yoga. However, you will be surprised to know that you can enhance the flexibility of your body at any age. Yoga poses safely stretch the muscles, thereby releasing the lactic acid that builds up over time. This results in the release of stiffness, tension, pain, and fatigue from the muscles.

    Another specialty about yoga is its wide range of poses. Depending upon the stamina and overall health, you can choose from mild breathing exercises and positions to high intensity poses. There is always a choice that is suitable to your physical condition.

    If you want to start practicing yoga, a professional instructor is better than a DVD. Yoga is not without its physical dangers. Back injuries, twists and strains are quite common. Beginners tend to overestimate their progress and can find themselves attempting positions that are beyond their capabilities. This is especially true for people who are doing it to get fit or lose weight. An instructor can correct your positions right away and always ensure you practice safely.

    Yoga is a lifestyle, and practicing yoga poses is the easiest way to get into it. Give it time and it will change your life.

     * Use a certified instructor.

    * Tell the instructor about previous and existing health issues.

    * Start in a beginner class or one in which the instructor moves slowly enough for you.

    * Always keep a proper head, shoulder and pelvis alignment.

    * Learning to use your muscles to support your back takes time, patience and commitment. Do not rush.

    * Ashtanga and Power Yoga are generally too vigorous for beginners and inflexible people. Beginners should practice gentle forms of yoga, such as Hatha Yoga.

    * Do 10 minutes of warming up with easy movements to increase blood circulation, lubricate joints and ready your body to stretch.

    * Do not view it as a competition.

    * Be patient; do not expect instant results.