Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and to endure what can’t be cured – B.K.S. Iyengar

Emerging from Northern India some 5000 years ago, yoga is an ancient spiritual, mental and physical practice, which developed as a way to help alleviate daily suffering. Originally, a life philosophy based on our relationship with the the world and finding inner peace – it has subsequently evolved over the continents and centuries, encompassing a variety of methods and ideologies.

Hatha Yoga itself can trace its origins back to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, written circa 400 A.D. These sutras contained reference to the 8 Limbs of Yoga or 8 Limb method; a guideline to living a deeper and more peaceful life.

One of the most prominent strands, Hatha used to be considered an umbrella-term for various sub-styles, such as Iyengar, Yin and Ashtanga. Now, it often refers to any form of yoga consisting of poses. Although this style is associated with gentle or laid back practice; according to one interpretation, ‘hatha‘ actually means ‘forceful‘ in Sanskrit.

Some of the benefits of practice are a heightened understanding of one’s physical and mental self, which can lead to better maintenance of these two key components – a healthy mind and body operate in tandem. For example, poor diets and a depressed mindset have a more detrimental impact than many may realise.

It can reduce stress levels, improve mental health and help normalise blood pressure. It can enhance flexibility and greatly alleviate back pain and joint problems; it can improve posture, boost the immune system, encourage deeper sleep and increase blood flow. And there’s plenty more, but I think you get the idea.

Yoga is a personal journey that moves along at one’s own pace. It is paradoxically individual and communal. While there is much to be gained from bonding and shared experiences in group practice, each human body is unique.

Modern living can be a whirlwind of phone calls; emails; texts and notifications that overpower the senses and deprive us of a break. With yoga we can counteract this and master our inner-world.