what is yoga?

what is yoga?
"Words fail to give it its true value, Yoga is an experience." B.K.S. Iyengar

Yoga is a 3000 year old (and still evolving) self-empowering system that uses a broad range of techniques to improve and enhance well-being and phisical performance. It assists to maintain and restore health. It can also be a powerful tool on the journey of personal development and spiritual growth.

The system of yoga includes: Asanas - postures (integrated with various modern stretching techniques), Pranayama - breath control and efficiency as well as Dhyana - meditation.

The word "yoga" derives from the Sanskrit root "yug" meaning "to bring together", "to unite", "to unify".

"Yoga is an art as well as a science. It is a science, because it offers practical methods for controlling body and mind, thereby making deep meditation possible. And it is an art, for unless it is practiced intuitively and sensitively it will yield only superficial results." Paramhansa Yogananda

who can do yoga?
There are no pre-requisites to begin practicing Yoga. Whether for health, sport, peace of mind or spiritual aspiration, yoga is for everyone irrespective of age, ability, gender, belief or cultural background.
Yoga encompasses many techniques. A skilled yoga teacher can create programmes, to be enjoyed in a group, or personalised to meet the specific needs of a student.