Yoga is considered as an art of life, in a way in which it benefits the body, mind and the inner spirit. This art was invented five thousand years ago and is practiced since then. The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word which means 'to unite or yoke'.

Yoga is a way of living peaceful life. It is a practice of healing systems, practice which helps in the healing of old and new injuries. Hence, the goal of yoga may vary from enhancing health and fitness to achieving Moksha. Yoga practice boosts physical strength, stamina, flexibility and balance. In addition, yoga bestows great powers of concentration and self control. Yoga not only helps in stress management and relaxation of body, but it also provides clarity of mind.

Taking up yoga as a part of routine life is indeed a big step. It means practicing yoga and making changes in your routine that will help you to bring balance to your body, mind and spirit. While doing yoga for the first time you need to start with simple positions that most of you will be able to do without any difficulty. When the basics are clear then you can try the complex moves. However, people practicing yoga for years can do the difficult and complicated moves as well. Here is how you can imbibe yoga in your day-to-day life.

Basic Yoga Postures for Beginners

There are many resources on yoga for beginners to get started. Here are the details that will help you to start yoga slowly and steadily. Move slowly from one position to the next and hold each one as long and comfortably possible.

• Relaxation pose: Lie down flat on your back with your arms on the side
  
  
• Full body stretch: Stretch your arms above your head without causing discomfort, pressing them out towards the wall. Stretch your legs out, pushing the heels of your feet towards the opposite wall.
  
  
• Wind-relieving pose: Stretch out again into relaxing position. Slowly bring one knee up to your chest, holding it with both hands and pull your head up to meet your knee and hold. Repeat the same action with the other leg.
  
  
• Cat stretch: Now arch your back like a cat does when it stretches
  
  
• Puppy stretch: Drop your back down and raise your head like a dog crying at the moon.
  
  
• Bridge: Lie down on your back with knees bent. Now slowly raise your buttocks off the floor, then lower back, then upper back, until you are balancing as best you comfortably can on your shoulders. Move your arms so they are underneath your body and clasp your hands. Hold as long as comfortably possible.
  
  
• Cobra: When you get to the point that your body is resting on the forearms, continue pushing your torso up so that you are supporting it with your palms.
  
  
• Belly relaxation: Lie on your belly, legs stretch out behind you, arms resting comfortably at your side, head turned to the side so that your cheek is resting on the floor.
  
  
• Final relaxation: Turn over onto your back and return to the starting pose, legs stretched out and arms at your side. In this way, you can start with Yoga.