Yoga, the science of man, based on ancient Indian wisdom and culture, is an art of living a healthy, balanced, peaceful and contented life. Yoga, being a total integrated system, studies man in his wholeness - body, mind and spirit and is integrated to certain principles, ideas, values, attitudes and a way of life for personal and social benefits.
When it comes to Yoga or Meditation, the first place that really grabs our attention is Kerala. When it comes to rejuvenating yourself, there's no other destination in India than the Backwaters of Kerala. A place in south India where nature shimmers in its freshness.
The form of Yoga that has gained popularity worldwide and which is taught in schools across Kerala is Hatha Yoga, which emphasizes the training of the body and mind to attain a higher state of fitness and consciousness. While the asanas taught at yoga schools in Kerala, promote flexibility and the physical conditioning of the body, the breathing exercises improve concentration and the whole process helps relieve mental and physical stress.
Ashtanga yoga or the eight stages of yoga are recognized as the path to self-realization. These stages are:
- Yama: Restraint
- Niyama: Observance of the rules of self-discipline
- Asana: Exercises in physical posture
- Pranayama: Breath control
- Pratyahara: Detachment
- Dharna: Focusing of the mind
- Dhyana: Concentrated meditation
- Samadhi: Supreme self-consciousness
Yoga and meditation are taught in many resorts and health centers in Kerala. All major hotels and resorts have yoga instructors who can demonstrate and teach the yogic postures or asanas. Each asana has specific benefits.
