Patanjali is one of the most recognised names in yoga history. Whilst there isn’t a huge amount of available information about Patanjali himself, he is known to have been responsible for compiling The Yoga Sutras – a collection of Indian traditions, presented in 195 short verses. This text holds significant value in the history of yoga, as the first structured record of yoga practice as a way of life, which Patanjali took from many different past practices at the time.
The full history of yoga is fairly unclear still, despite many curious researchers digging deep to further piece together the jigsaw.
Part of the reason for this uncertainty, is that in the early days of yoga, knowledge was passed on by word-of-mouth only. Later, this word-of-mouth knowledge was written onto palm leaves, however with their fragility these were often damaged, lost or destroyed, leaving few clues as to the early origins of yoga practice.
It is hard to pinpoint exactly where and when the very first official centre for practicing yoga in London was established. It doesn’t compare to the 5,000 odd years of yoga practice in India. But in the past half-a-dozen decades yoga has made it’s way into the lives and hearts of the western world. Yoga is big…
Yoga breathing exercises are prominent in practicing yoga past beginner level, as it deepens all aspects of yoga practice. Yoga breathing helps improve focus and concentration, endure deeper and longer stretches, increase endurance and create a more peaceful mind. Whether you choose an energetic type of yoga such as Vinyasa yoga or a quieter yoga…
Breathing is a key part of yoga practice. Whilst we all breathe tens of thousands of times every day without thinking about it, yoga breathing brings this day-to-day normality and life function into consciousness. From there, we can become aware of our own breathing techniques, and most of the time we realise that we aren’t…
The Yoga Sutras are a collection of 195 Indian traditions, or aphorisms, written and compiled by the Sage, Patanjali. They detail the historical practice of yoga taken from many sources, combining the knowledge that was available at the time, to act as a yoga guidebook and the framework of which yoga practice has been built.
First of all, welcome to the world of yoga! You are about to join the other millions of people worldwide who practice yoga for fitness, health, healing, relaxation, spirituality and self-development. As you have an interest in yoga for complete beginners you may have questions. You may be excited but also a little apprehensive of what…