21st June, being the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, and having a special significance in many parts of the world, was declared as an International Day for Yoga by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). More than 170 countries in the world, celebrate this day. Day.
T. Krishnamacharya opened the first Hatha Yoga School in Mysore in 1924 and in 1936, Swami Sivananda founded the Divine Life Society on the banks of the Ganges.
By doing Yoga you work both on your strength and flexibility. Some forms are about relaxation which are more spiritual and philosophical in approach include meditation, breathing techniques and chanting as well as yoga postures and in others you move more.
Ashtanga and Power Yoga are very physical and help improve muscle, bone, while less physical styles such as Hatha and Iyengar Yoga, provide strength and endurance. Kripalu Yoga also begins with slow movements that barely cause a sweat, and progresses through three levels of deeper mind-body awareness.
Focus on learning Asanas.
If you are new to Yoga, then it is good to start with these Basic poses:
- Tadasana (Mountain pose) : This involves the major groups of muscles and improves focus and concentration. It is the starting position for all the other asanas.
- Vrikshasana (Tree pose) : This improves your balance and strengthens your legs and back and gives you a sense of grounding.
- Adho Mukho Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog) : This pose stretches hamstrings, chest and lengthens the spine.
- Trikonasana (Triangle pose) : This stretches the legs and torso, mobilises the hips and promotes deep breathing.
- Kursiasana (Chair pose) : This is a powerful pose and strengthens the muscles of the legs and arms.
- Naukasana (Boat pose) : This tightens the abdominal muscles and strengthens the shoulders and upper back.
- Bhujangasana (Cobra pose) : This one strengthens the lower back muscles while cushioning the spine.
- Paschimottanasana : This asana helps in improving the flexibility of the hamstrings and hips.
- Child’s pose : This restful posture helps let go and surrender.
- Sukhasana : Sukhasana is a comfortable position for Pranayam.
Foods To Eat Before Yoga:
- If you practice Yoga in the morning it is better to eat Bananas and other fruits like Berries, 45 minutes prior to your session.
- If you practice Yoga in the evening have light snacks such as Steamed vegetables, Salads, Nuts and Seeds an hour before exercise.
Foods To Eat After Yoga Session:
- You should drink water 30 minutes after you have exercised to hydrate again.
- Always ensure that you are well hydrated. Drink water, coconut water or lemon water. Your focus and energy levels are compromised even with mild dehydration.
Let’s pledge to stay healthy and engage in yoga and a healthy diet this International Yoga Day.