Roots thousands of years old
Yoga didn't start as a fitness trend, but as a philosophical and spiritual practice. Its roots go back to ancient India, more than five thousand years ago. Originally, it was a way to connect the body, mind, and consciousness. It included not only movement, but also meditation, breathing exercises (pranayama), and ethical principles.
The word yoga itself means "unity" in Sanskrit, a connection between the body and mind and between the individual and the world around them.
Asanas
The physical positions we now call asanas were long considered only a small part of yoga. They served primarily to make the body strong and flexible and able to remain still during meditation. Asanas gradually developed and today are what most people imagine when they hear the word yoga.
- Curiosity: some of the most famous poses, such as the headstand (śīrṣāsana) or the lotus pose (padmāsana), appear in medieval texts such as the 14th-century Hatha Yoga Pradipika. Modern styles, such as power yoga and core yoga, did not emerge until the 20th century, when the practice spread to the West and became more focused on physical fitness.
What kind of yoga is right for you?
There is more than one type of yoga. It offers gentle, calm, and dynamic approaches, so everyone can choose according to their mood, energy, and life phase.
- Hatha yoga is calm and balanced, ideal for beginners.
- Vinyasa yoga brings a smooth flow of movements, where asanas are connected into sequences – meditation in motion.
- Power yoga is dynamic and strengthening, burning energy and toning the body.
- Core yoga focuses on deep muscles and helps with back pain.
- Yin yoga is slow and calming, with poses held for several minutes, deeply affecting the fascia and joints.
- Hot yoga and Bikram yoga take place in a warm room up to 40 °C, which promotes stretching and a feeling of detoxification.
- Breathing exercises (pranayama) help you focus, calm your mind, and harmonize your body.
If you want to start traditionally, we recommend trying Yoga in Daily Life classes. Those who prefer energy and dynamism will appreciate Happyoga Power Yoga Studio. For classes in English, head to PRAGUE YOGA COLLECTIVE.
Simple rituals for every day
You don't have to go on a retreat to experience the benefits of yoga. Just set aside a few minutes at home or outside.
Morning energizing trio
- Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskara) – gets your body moving and boosts your energy.
- Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana II) – strengthens your legs and improves your stability.
- Tree Pose (Vrksasana) – improves your balance and concentration.
Evening calming
- Child's pose (Balásana) – relaxes the back and nervous system.
- Butterfly pose (Baddha Konásana) – opens the hips and calms the breath.
- Savasana – short relaxation lying on your back before sleep.
Breathe away stress
- Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) – breathing through one nostril and then the other balances the right and left hemispheres of the brain.
- Box breathing (inhale, hold, exhale, hold – all for four counts) immediately reduces tension.
Yoga for body and mind
Regular yoga practice has proven benefits. It reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol, improves concentration, promotes sleep, and strengthens immunity. Rotations and forward bends improve digestion, opening the chest and working with the breath harmonizes the nervous system.
Yoga is a great preventive measure, but if you suffer from back pain, knee pain, or other problems, it is worth combining it with physical therapy. Experts from the Centre for Rehabilitation and Sports Care or the vo2max Clinic will advise you on which exercises are beneficial and which are better to avoid.
Outdoor yoga has its charm
Practicing outdoors has a completely different atmosphere than the studio. Morning sun salutations in the park or evening practice at sunset will fill you with energy and calm. Being outside also promotes serotonin production and prepares the body for the colder months.
- Tip: Take advantage of the last warm weeks and try going out into nature with your mat. You don't need a complicated routine, just a few poses, breathing exercises, and a moment of silence.
Retreats and yoga getaways
Are you looking for a deeper experience? In recent years, yoga retreats and getaways, whether weekend or week-long, have grown in popularity, combining intensive practice, relaxation, and time in nature. It's an opportunity to pause, disconnect from the daily grind, and gain a new perspective. Depending on your preferences, you can choose a program in Czech or English, at home or abroad.
- Curiously: studies show that even a three-day yoga and meditation retreat can reduce stress perception by up to 30%.
You can try Jóguj Online or Vivido Fit. In addition to yoga retreats, they also offer online lessons for home practice, which will make the time until your retreat fly by.
A little different kind of yoga
It may surprise you, but yoga doesn't always have to be serious and spiritual—it can also be playful.
For example, you can try yoga with puppies at Pets Yoga, which combines movement, relaxation, and animal-assisted therapy.
In conclusion?
Yoga is not just exercise, but also a way to maintain balance at a time when the world is pulling us in all directions. Whether you choose power yoga for energy, yin yoga for calm, or a retreat to recharge, think of it as an investment in yourself. Your body will thank you, your mind will calm down, and you will gain more strength and joy for everything that awaits you.
