lesson 1 lecture

1. Lesson 1 Lecture
Lesson Summary:
In this lesson you will learn some of the brief facts about yoga including the history
of yoga and who may benefit from doing yoga. The benefits of performing yoga will
also be discussed in this lesson. Some potential risks of yoga will also be provided.
Lesson Content:
What is yoga?
Yoga began over 5,000 years ago in Northern India. Some researchers believe that
yoga may even date back to 10,000 years ago. Yoga involves different breathing
techniques, positioning your body in various ways and also a lot of concentration.
The word “yoga” has a few different definitions such as "to unite” or “to
concentrate”. A male who teaches yoga is often referred to as a Yogi and a female is
referred to as a Yogini. “Yoga in ancient times, was often referred to in terms of a
tree with roots, trunk, branches, blossoms and fruits. Each branch of yoga has
unique characteristics and represents a specific approach to life.” (Nichols, 2016).
What are the benefits of yoga?
Some studies have shown that yoga is a great way to increase flexibility, strength
and balance. Yoga is also a great way for someone to increase his or her physical
activity. It has been found that yoga can help with certain health conditions such as
arthritis, diabetes, asthma and high blood pressure. Yoga is known to help people
relax which can benefit a person who may suffer from anxiety, depression or stress.
Anyone can participate in yoga. Yoga is a great was for the elderly to increase their
balance, which may help to prevent falls.
Are there any risks?
Yoga has a very small rate of injury when it is performed under the supervision of
an instructor. There are some rare side effects of yoga such as nerve pain. Persons
who are interested in participating in a yoga class who may have a medical
condition should consult a physician before starting yoga.
Video
Listed below is a video titled “Introduction to Yoga: What is Yoga?” by Sean Morgan,
who is the author of “Mastery of Change”. In this video Sean discusses briefly what
yoga is and how it has help him personally.
https://youtu.be/tZzhbkJj18I