The History of Yoga
The yoga is regarded as a divine science of life, revealed to enlightened sages in Meditation. The oldest evidence of its existence is provided by a number of stone seals from the Indus valley which dates back to 3000BC. It is first mentioned in the scriptures called the Vedas, portions of which date from at least 2500 BC. In the epic Mahabharata, Lord Krishna, instructs the warrior Arjuna in Yoga to help him to achieve liberation by fulfilling one's duties in Life.

In ancient times, yoga techniques were kept secret. They were passed on from Guru to disciple by word of Mouth. In this way there was a clear understanding of their meaning and aim. In the 6th century BC, Lord Buddha's influence brought the ideals of meditation, ethics and morality to the fore and the preparatory practices of yoga were ignored. However Indian thinkers soon realized the limitations of the view and wrote several books which describe the various Asanas and breathing exercises which forms the basis of the modern practice of yoga. The science of yoga has passed the test of thousands of years of trial and refinement. The great rishis and Munis of India, who renounced the world, studied, meditated and thought upon it in isolation for years together, have developed this science over the Millenniums.

The benefits of yoga
Yoga benefits in physical and mental therapy. Aging is caused by autointoxication. We can control it by keeping the body parts clean and well lubricated, thus significantly reduce the catabolic process of cell deterioration. To get the maximum benefits of yoga one has to follow three main guidelines i.e., practice of Asanas, Pranayama and YogaNidra.

Regular practice of Asanas helps to keep our body fit, controls cholesterol level, weight; normalizes blood pressure and improves heart performance. Physical fitness thus achieved leads to reduction of physical stress and harmonize our pranic ability and mental energy flow, leading to calmness.

Pranayama (the correct breathing technique): helps to manipulate our energies. Most of us breathe incorrectly by not using our abdomen, thereby utilizing only half of our lung capacity. Pranayama is a technique wherein it re-educates our breathing process, helps to release tensions and develop a relaxed state of mind. Further it increases the amount of oxygen to our brain, thereby improving mental clarity, alertness and physical well being.

Yoga Nidra is wonderful relaxation meditation, done while lying on our back. It relaxes the whole of our physical /nervous system, thus completely rejuvenating the body /mind complex. A relaxed mind gives us a sense of well being. A tense mind is the cause of most diseases.