Yoga is an umbrella term for many physical and mental practices that aim to connect body, mind and spirit, increase well-being and create a sense of unity. Learn with us everything about yoga, its origin, the main styles, indications as well as possibilities of a yoga trip.
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Yoga, a millennia-old practice
The most popular hotels for Yoga
7 nights from
£1,919
Kunzmann's Hotel | SPA
S
Germany · Rhoen / Vogelsberg · Bad Bocklet
Classic Ayurveda Therapy - Regeneration
Excellent
4.7
/55 nights from
£941
Luna y Sol Ayurveda Hotel
COMFORT
Spain · Costa del Sol · Malaga- Almayate Alto
Lakshmi Pampering Days
Fabulous
4.4
/57 nights from
£1,202
- 10%
OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel - Tenerife
Spain · Tenerife · Punta del Hidalgo
OCÉANO Yoga Escape
Excellent
4.7
/53 nights from
£223
- 20%
Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa Resort
Morocco · Agadir · Imi Ouaddar
2-Day Surf & Yoga
Excellent
4.7
/57 nights from
£1,178
TOMESA Fachklinik & Gesundheitszentrum
COMFORT
Germany · Rhoen / Vogelsberg · Bad Salzschlirf
Ayurveda Therapy
Great
4.1
/55 nights from
£260
- 27%
Hotel Lambert Medical Spa
Poland · Baltic Sea · Ustronie Morskie
Yoga Wellness Holiday
Fabulous
4.3
/5More popular destinations
Popular topics
Yoga - More than just asanas
Yoga is on everyone's lips. Hatha, yin, vinyasa and pranayama have long been part of everyday vocabulary for many. You wonder where yoga originally comes from, which styles there are and what the practices can help? We'll tell you on this page! In addition, you will learn which yoga trips or vacation combinations are particularly relaxing.
Definition: What is Yoga?
Yoga is actually a overarching term for various physical and mental practices such as physical exercises, meditation and breathing exercises. In addition to these three best-known pillars, however, many other "guides" are part of the yoga framework. Traditionally, there is an 8-limbed yoga path that is supposed to lead to bliss. This includes the conscious handling of one's environment (yamas), the handling of oneself (niyamas), the physical exercises (asanas), the control of one's breath (pranayama), the withdrawal of the senses (pratyahara), the concentration of the mind (dharana), meditation (dhyana) and finally the state of inner freedom and bliss (samadhi). Yoga is therefore much more than mere exercises on the yoga mat.
Interesting facts about the history & origin of yoga
How old the yogic philosophy is, is not quite clear. However, in the Indian Vedas, a collection of texts from India that has survived to us today, there is evidence that people in India were meditating and doing pranayama exercises more than 3,500 years ago. Other scholars claim that yoga is much older still. So when yoga originated is not entirely clear. Clear, however, is the meaning of "yoga" in the ancient Indian language: unity, unification and harmony. Already the ascetics use the yoga practice in all its forms for physical and mental purification.
But how did yoga come from India to us in the western world? In the 18th and 19th centuries, more and more intellectuals became aware of the sacred scriptures and the world of yoga - and through the Bhagavad Gita, one of the most important yoga scriptures. Humboldt was so enthusiastic that he even began to learn Sanskrit; other intellectuals tried to translate the scriptures. In addition, Western intellectuals entered into exchange with Indian spirituals and new forms of yoga emerged, which thus came to us in the Western world. In the 1950s, more and more Indian yoga teachers came to the Western world to impart their knowledge. In the 70s, yoga then gained through the Beatles once again an upswing, because they were looking for enlightenment in India and even lived there for some time in the ashram. The philosophy became increasingly known - and the trend is still rising today.
These are the most popular yoga styles
The best known in the Western world is the style hatha yoga. Ha stands for sun, tha for moon, so in hatha yoga the activating (sun) energy and the regenerating (moon) energy are connected in the yoga practice. Calmness and mindfulness emerge from this practice, which often begins with the sun salutation. Hatha yoga is best suited both for beginners and advanced and is the most common style found in yoga schools and centers.
The vinyasa yoga is a dynamic variation of hatha yoga. The asanas are not practiced individually as in Hatha, but strung together, creating a kind of "flow". In vinyasa flow, the exercises should flow synchronously to the breath, with the yoga teachers usually guiding you. Vinyasa not only strengthens deep muscles, but also establishes a meditative state.
Yin yoga is a quiet style of yoga that, unlike hatha and vinyasa, is practiced mostly lying down and sitting. For long periods of time, the asanas, that is, the yoga positions are held statically, without the need for great muscular effort. By holding a position for a long time, tensions should be released, flexibility improved and energy flows in the body stimulated. On the mind and psyche yin yoga especially relaxing.
Yoga practice can help with these indications
Yoga for the back can prevent joint and back pain and also help with existing problems. Exercises that strengthen the body center are particularly important for the back. In the case of joint disorders, slow and mindful movements should be the main focus, such as in hatha yoga.
People with hypertension should choose gentle yoga styles such as hatha or yin to lower blood pressure. More dynamic and energetic styles should be avoided. Certain breathing exercises and meditation can also make a lasting contribution to blood pressure regulation and therefore help patients in a completely natural way in everyday life.
Yoga, meditation and breathing exercises not only help against physical ailments, but are also a miracle weapon against stress, anxiety and inner turmoil. Various studies have shown that the effectiveness of yoga in mental suffering is even comparable to that of therapeutic treatment. However, yoga is not recommended for people with bipolar or psychotic disorders, where exacerbations can occur.
People who suffer from asthma or COPD can use yoga - especially the asanas and pranayama - to help them breathe easier and feel good again. Above all, the loss of control or confidence in one's own body associated with asthma can be counteracted with yoga. More relaxation and inner peace alone can not cure the disease, but certainly support the therapy.
You can try these yoga combinations with us
A popular combination is yoga and hiking. Start the day with yoga and then experience your vacation region on a hike. With this form of vacation you discover new horizons inside and outside and refuel with your hike in the fresh air also new energy. If you like, you can participate again in the evening in a yoga hour. Give yourself your full attention during yoga and hiking moments and enjoy the break for body, mind and soul. Germany or Austria are particularly popular for this type of yoga trip.
Beauty oases under palm trees, sauna landscapes with a view of the mountains or oriental-style spas - you can find all this at yoga and wellness combinations. For those who really come to rest during wellness and beauty treatments and forget everything around them, this kind of yoga trip is ideal. Through the daily yoga you will also find yourself even deeper in a state of relaxation. Enjoy moments just for yourself, in Bali, Thailand, India, Austria or many other places in the world.
Whether you already fasting experience have or newcomer in the field sind, professional teams of fasting leaders and yoga instructors will ensure that you feel also with this vacation combination pudelwohl. Especially popular in conjunction with yoga are therapeutic fasting according to Buchinger and detox offers, both with strong detoxification effect. Exercise in the fresh air in the form of yoga and various relaxation methods such as progressive muscle relaxation, help you deal with the challenges of a fasting retreat.
Who is looking for a special sporty kick on vacation, books a yoga and surfing vacation, for example on Fuerteventura, in Morocco or at the Baltic Sea. Start your day with sanftem yin yoga or a vinyasa flow including sun salutations on the beach and then plunge into the floods! Whether beginner or advanced, the yoga and surf instructors respond to each participant individually. After a delicious brunch you have time to discover your vacation region or to listen to the waves with a book on the beach.
FAQ - What else you should know about yoga
What does the word yoga mean?
Yoga means as much as unity, unification and harmony.
From which country does yoga come?
The cradle of yoga is in India. Here it has been practiced and knowledge passed on for several thousand years.
How long has yoga been around?
Quite clearly this question is not clarified, however, one assumes that yoga was practiced in India already more than 5000 years ago.
What types of yoga are particularly popular?
In addition to classics such as Hatha or yin yoga, vinyasa, kundalini and ashtanga yoga are among the most popular types. Some yoga retreats also offer yoga nidra, "the yogic sleep," which helps relieve stress. Yoga styles, however, are now endless: hot yoga, tantra yoga or facial yoga are also part of the family.
Which yoga style suits me?
You can only find out by trying it out. Start with a Hatha therapy course to get a feeling for yoga and then feel whether it should be more intense, more dynamic or calmer for you. Many people also practice several styles at the same time, so you don't have to commit right away.
What effect does yoga have on body and mind?
Yoga causes an improvement in our physical and mental condition. The regular practice of asanas provides more mobility, endurance and strength. But even in the treatment of depression and anxiety yoga can be supportive.
For whom is yoga suitable?
Yoga is suitable for everyone. Whether old, young, thin or fat, beginner or fitness junkie. Everyone can find a suitable yoga style, with which he or she can pursue the very personal goals.
Who should not practice yoga?
Only people with bipolar disorders must be careful with meditation and breathing exercises or should not perform them without accompaniment. Pregnant women are also not allowed to do certain asanas or breathing exercises; however, alternatives can always be found here, so that it is still allowed to practice.
How often should yoga be practiced?
To experience the positive effects of yoga, yoga should be practiced at least once a week. Many yogis get into the habit and practice some form of yoga almost daily. Morning meditations are also a nice routine and can be done daily.
Where can I gain yoga experience as a beginner?
As a beginner, it is especially worthwhile to participate in a yoga therapy course to get the right care and support at the beginning. This is important so that you avoid injuries and to learn everything correctly from the beginning. After a beginner's course or a yoga retreat, you can then also integrate yoga into your everyday life at home.
What do I need for yoga?
A yoga mat and comfortable yoga clothing. Other aids can be yoga blocks or a yoga belt, but these are often available on site in the yoga studio.