Yoga Basics

The Yoga Basics Study Brief provides a concise introduction to the philosophies and practices of Yoga, highlighting the life-balance benefits that can be achieved from the Yogic approach to exercise, breathing and meditation. Physiological, psychological and biochemical effects associated with the practice of Yoga are discussed. In this Study Brief, you will learn what Yoga is and what it is NOT, consider a comparison of Yoga to other forms of exercise, understand how Yoga works, find out what happens inside our brains when meditating and become more informed about Yoga health trends. This Study Brief provides some background on the origins of Yoga and introduces major teachers who have promoted the philosophies and practice through the years. The principal branches of Yoga (Bhakti, Hatha, Jnana, Karma, Mantra, Raga Yoga and Tantra) are covered, along with definitions of key Yoga terms. This useful guide provides tips for beginners as well as a high-level overview of the eight methods or limbs (yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi). An illustrated quick reference to various Yoga asanas, breathing exercises, and yoga supplies and props is included as a convenient tool to get started. A compiled selection of helpful online resources recommends websites to visit for more in-depth information, programs, supplies and training.  Study Briefs are concise and visual academic outlines that help students and professionals master key concepts quickly and accurately. Don’t spend your valuable time researching on multiple websites, paging through books or investigating reference sources. Our experts have done the research for you! Compiled in one convenient guide, you will find up-to-date and reliable sources presented in a visual and easy to follow format for everyday use. Choose from our ever-growing library of need-to-know topics in the following subject categories: Business, Math, Reference, Science, Language, History and Technology!