Yoga is an ancient Hindu discipline, aimed at training the consciousness for a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility that is achieved through the three paths of action, knowledge, and devotion. It involves practicing certain asanas (bodily postures), along with breath control and meditation for achieving good mental, as well as physical health. Raja, Karma, Jnana, Bhakti, and Hatha Yoga are the different types of the same. Asanas, breathing exercises known as pranayama, meditation, and chanting are among the many aspects that people get familiar with,while practicing yoga. Health Benefits Yoga enhances blood circulation, which in turn, helps the various parts of body get oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood. Controlled breathing also promotes a lower respiratory rate. This has a good effect on the lung function and keeps a check on respiratory ailments. It also helps slow down the pulse rate. It helps the heart pump more blood with fewer beats. This is especially beneficial for people who are prone to or affected by hypertension, heart diseases, and stroke. It not only facilitates healthy functioning of the body, but also improves one's mental health as well. Even people who have recently started practicing yogic asanas and breathing techniques feel the positive effects. This is due to the fact that yogic practices help in reducing catecholamines, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, which in turn reduces the effects of stress and calms one's mind. It also improves one's ability focus and concentrate. It has been studied that people who go for regular classes have lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.Apart from these, people noticed a reduction in the intensity of the symptoms of asthma, back pain, arthritis, insomnia, etc. Following this ancient discipline will certainly strengthen one's immune system. Increased pain tolerance, improved gastrointestinal functions, and cardiovascular endurance are some of the other health benefits of yoga. Flexibility, is perhaps, one of the most important health benefits of practicing asanas. People belonging to any age groups, can improve their flexibility with the help of asanas. These poses help reduce stiffness, tension, pain, and fatigue in the body, thereby increasing the range of motion. With increased flexibility, pain in different body joints seem to resolve, and there is a feeling of ease and fluidity throughout your body. It also helps improve one's posture. Power yoga involves vigorous exercises than the traditional ones and it tremendously helps in toning the muscles. However, even the traditional styles help in improving the muscle strength. Athletes always need to be on their toes, when it comes to strength, endurance, and agility. Yogic practices can certainly help them achieve that. Following yoga during pregnancy can also improve the health of expecting mothers. It not only has a calming effect, but also helps the expecting mother to tone the reproductive organs, pelvis, and the rest of her body to ensure an easier childbirth. Following breathing exercises improves the flow of oxygenated blood, which in turn, has a positive effect on the unborn child. Other benefits include:

• Delayed aging process by effective detoxification of the body
• Decreased fatigue and increased level of energy for most part of the day
• Better metabolism and maintenance of healthy weight
• Improved sleep and more control on body and mind
• Helps one to be more aware of his/her body and develop greater self-confidence
• Better control on breathing

The advantages of this ancient discipline are numerous. These were the benefits which have been observed by experts and by those who have incorporated this discipline in their lives. So, follow yogic practices and enjoy living each day healthily and happily!