Yoga is More Than Physical Exercise
Eastern and western cultures share the same foundation when it comes to yoga, yet western culture may have different views for the reasons they participate in yogic practices. In western culture, many have adapted yogic practices to fit their fast-paced lifestyle. A 60-minute class is often viewed as a way to accomplish physical exercise and is intended to increase physical fitness by toning and strengthening the body; however, eastern culture believes it is a way of life.
The Meaning of Yoga
Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word “yuli” meaning union. It is an ancient practice that has been in existence for thousands of years and has benefits way beyond physical exercise. Yoga brings about spiritual unification by bringing together the body-mind connection by incorporating a variety of modalities such as pranayama (breathwork), meditation, and poses (asana) to encourage relaxation and stress reduction rather than physical appearance. Yoga helps people to focus attention inward to allow the Self an opportunity to fully emerge.
Yoga and Physical Exercise Differ in Several Ways
Yoga involves a certain level of physical activity or poses, which translates into exercise, but exercise itself does not involve yoga. Yoga is based on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. These are a collection of 196 short verses that serve as a guide to attain wisdom and self-realization through the practice of yoga. The core of these teachings is intended to provide depth and practical wisdom to help people explore the central meaning of yoga.
Exercise is intended for physical fitness and often requires equipment. Its purpose is to speed up breathing, making the lungs work harder. On the other hand, yoga does not need any equipment, can be practiced by anyone regardless of age, and aims to calmly condition by reducing the burden placed on the respiratory system. Yoga focuses on the overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the person.
Exercise focuses on stimulating the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) creating tiredness in the body. It is catabolic which breaks down energy. Yoga stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), thus providing relaxation and calm to the person’s body and mind. It is anabolic which conserves energy.
Eastern? Western? Does It Matter?
Even though yoga practice differs dramatically between the east and the west, there is certainly nothing wrong with experiencing both yoga cultures. By doing so, you can help learn how to deepen your personal practice, as well as discover what works best for your mind, body, and soul.