In addition, some balance postures such as Tree Pose and Shoulderstand require enormous muscle control in order to prevent you from falling over. This helps to build and strengthen your muscles.

Muscle Balance – In weight training, you isolate a specific muscle as you perform an exercise and this leads to a short, tightened muscle. The muscles you develop during yoga are more likely to be elongated, because while you are strengthening them, you are simultaneously lengthening them. You also do not focus on an isolated muscle, but actively recruit smaller muscle groups as well. You truly work your entire body when you practice yoga.

Practicing yoga can help realign your muscles, so they are more balanced. Since you are not overworking any specific muscle group, you are less likely to get injured.

In addition to all its other benefits, yoga can help you improve muscle fitness. Whether you choose to use it as your primary means of strength training or you want it to supplement your other exercises, yoga can help your muscles grow fit, balanced, and strong.

Pranayama - controlling breath

Pratyahara - going inward and withdrawing attention from outside world

Dharana - concentration

Dhyana - meditation

Samadhi - merging with universal consciousness

The Swami Vivekananda added to history of yoga by bringing it to America. In 1893, he addressed Parliament of World Religions and discussed path of yoga. As a result of his speech, it quickly began to blossom as a practice in many areas of country. Yoga has since gained major popularity in United States and many different styles including Hatha, Bikram, and Iyengar, are practiced by millions of people.

Knowing history of yoga can help you, practitioner, realize richness that it has to offer. More than just a means of being fit and trim, yoga can help you live a healthy, whole, and empowered life.