Yoga is a very popular term and most people who don't have much idea of it identify it with impossible postures; twisting your body in all sorts of ways. This keeps a lot of people away from this ancient practice. However, Yoga is not as difficult as it seems and when practiced under an experienced teacher can bring about a positive transformation into your life.

The history of Yoga is a long one- dating back some 5000 years ago in ancient India. The word is derived from the Sanskrit term, "Yuj" which implies integration or union. The deeper philosophy of Yoga is to unite and harmonize a person's consciousness and that of the universe.

The basic principle of yoga borders on the belief that human beings need to be in harmony with their minds and body and the environment around them. This leads to a relaxed and calm mind.

Yoga is a great way to beat work stress or any kind of personal or emotional stress you might be facing. The main idea is to help you get connected to your body and mind and reach a harmonious state.

Yoga techniques include breathing, meditation, and exercise. Yoga practice stresses on the need to respect one's body. The body is like a temple, responsible for our overall growth and well being, and needs to be treated with the utmost care.

Yoga practices are excellent for your overall health and can improve your blood circulation and many other ailments. It is advised to follow yoga practices under a qualified practitioner as wrong exercise techniques can do you more harm than good.

However, the results of regular yoga sessions may take time to show up. You need to be consistent and regular with your exercises, breathing techniques and meditation. The aim of Yoga is to improve your health and cure illnesses the natural way.

The main concept behind breathing exercises is that breath is the center of our existence and doing it right is important. Yoga practice involves breathing sessions where you will slowly gain control of your every breath and move to the next level, which is meditation.

Meditation relaxes every bone and nerve in your body, renewing your strength and vitality. In a fast paced, hectic world, it makes a lot of sense to slow down and let your mind relax through calming meditation.

Meditation does not always mean blocking all thoughts away and maintaining an inactive state of mind. Yoga practice believes in meditation where the mind is awake and yet relaxed. Proper meditation combined with exercise and breathing techniques is sure to help you beat your stress away.