History of Yoga

As yoga becomes increasingly diffuse and diverse, a single, common definition that can be agreed upon by everyone is almost impossible. Complicating matters further, the term has been in use for several thousand years and has shifted in meaning many times.

The word comes from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. It is a derivation of the word yuj, which means yoking, as in a team of oxen. In contemporary practice, this is often interpreted as meaning union. It is said to be for the purpose of uniting the mind, body, and spirit.

How can this union be achieved? Meditation is one way, but sometimes it is necessary to prepare the body for meditation by stretching and building strength. This is the physical practice of yoga, also know as asana.

Most modern practices rely heavily on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, a series of aphorisms written c. 250 CE, as the basis for their philosophies. Patanjali classifies asana as one of the eight “limbs” of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well-being than physical activity.

13217265_1187745704569989_3005123894721646071_oPractice Yoga in Savannah

There are tons of places to practice yoga in Savannah, Georgia. Be sure to check out these top studios!

Bikram Yoga offers a total body workout for people of all ages and fitness levels. Designed to build strength, flexibility, balance and mental focus, this yoga systematically stimulates and restores health to every muscle, joint and organ of the body. Each class lasts 90 minutes and consists of 26 postures practiced in a heated room, promoting detoxification and allowing the muscles to stretch more easily.

Savannah Power Yoga practice and programs are designed to empower you with the focus, training and insight you need to achieve consistent results in the most important areas of your life. A potent physical yoga practice, meditation practice and active self inquiry are used as tools of transformation – encouraging participants to reclaim their full potential, discover creativity, awaken passion, and create authenticity, confidence and new possibilities.

Savannah Yoga Center offers the widest variety and the most diverse classes around, with 57+ classes weekly. They serve people of all shapes, sizes, backgrounds and experience levels. Every body is welcome!

If you are looking for an easy way out, you will be sorely disappointed after your first Pure Barre class. If you are ready to put in real effort to get real results, your love affair with Pure Barre is about to begin. Your first class is the first step to strength and definition like your body has never known. We believe there is more than one way to reach your personal health goals and we’re here to help you find your individual path – the one that works for YOU. Savannah Yoga Barre is the area’s only total health and wellness studio offering Yoga, Barre and Pilates classes all in one location. Together with Nutrition Counseling and Myofascial Release Therapy, we bring a variety of options to our clientele allowing them to customize their own wellness plan suited to their individual goals and fitness level. It is the mission of Savannah Yoga Barre to bring wellness and vitality to our community – today is the perfect day to begin your journey to health and well-being! Start where you are. Do what you can. When you’re ready to dig deeper and reap the benefits that your practice can provide on the physical, mental and emotional level, come see us. Join one of over 50 group classes or call to schedule your private session.

The Barre & Yoga Room is a quaint local studio adding two of the most effective total body workouts together for a perfect mind-body connection! Shake at the barre and flow on the mat. You really should check this one out.