“It is health that is the real wealth”

To be healthy one needs to practice healthy habits. A healthy habit can be defined as a lifestyle that benefits one physically, mentally and emotionally. These habits contribute to the overall well-being.

Healthy habits like eating well, exercising, avoiding harmful chemicals and toxins, sleeping well, minimizing stress and maintaining hygiene are keys to promoting good health.

Exercising being one of the major contributors to a healthy lifestyle also helps in improving the sleep quality, reducing stress, maintaining healthy weight and promoting longevity.

Yoga, being the ancient form of exercise that originated 5000 years ago has gained popularity in the modern age as well, as it offers major health benefits- physical, emotional and mental.

Yoga benefits each person differently. Many find that it helps them to relax, others find themselves feeling healthier and more energetic. Yoga benefits every aspect of our bodies inside out. Yoga as a lifestyle means far more than performing difficult poses or practicing deep breathing techniques. Rather, it is a philosophy about all aspects of how we live life. The ancient yogis spoke of the “Eight Limbs Of Yoga” which describes eight aspects of a yoga lifestyle. These eight aspects are in essence a guide on how to achieve balance and harmony between mind, body and spirit that reflect in our mental, physical and emotional state.

These aspects of yoga, reflects upon the values of humanity and the real essence of being a spirit. It guides us to the path of social awareness for the empowerment of the mankind.

The “Eight Limbs Of Yoga”are :

1. Yamas(Ethical standards):
2. Niyamas(Self-discipline):
3. Asanas(Postures)
4. Pranayama(Breathing Techniques)
5. Pratyahara(Sensory withdrawal)
6. Dharna(Concentration)
7. Dhyana(Meditation)
8. Samadhi(Pure consciousness)

Practicing the seven aspects in daily life leads to the attainment of eighth limb – the utmost state of bliss and ecstacy.

“Yoga means addition – addition of energy, strength and beauty to body, mind and soul.”

By Ruchi Khosla

About the Author

Ruchi khosla, the founder of Renourish is a passionate holistic Health Coach from IIN NEW YORK and a Yoga Therapist (500RYT). She USES various fitness and wellness methodologies and helps her clients to move to a healthy lifestyle and lead a happier life. You can reach here at ruchi@renourish.me. Know more about Renourish here