7 Yoga Fun Facts You Might Not Have Known
You’ve got fun facts for almost anything, so why not explore some yoga fun facts? I’m sure you know the of the eight-limbed path to yoga, have heard of the Bhagavad Gita and have seen ‘beer yoga’ trending on social media. That is why I tried to find some interesting yet fun facts about yoga that simultaneously provide value. Feel free to share some of these yoga fun facts in your next class!
Yoga is an ancient practice that encompasses a rich tapestry of history, philosophy, and remarkable benefits for the mind, body, and spirit. In this article, we explore seven fascinating, informative and fun facts about yoga. From its profound impact on brain function to the existence of a Yoga University, intriguing connections to Hindu mythology, the power of mantras, the practice of Yoga Nidra, and the significance of chakras, let’s unravel the intricate facets of yoga.
Yoga Fun Fact 1: Yoga Can Improve Your Brain Function
Yoga’s effects extend beyond the physical realm, positively impacting the brain. Research suggests that regular yoga practice enhances brain function, memory, and cognitive abilities. This is attributed to increased levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
Moreover, yoga’s emphasis on mindfulness and breath control cultivates mental clarity, improved attention, and enhanced cognitive performance. By incorporating yoga into your routine, you can experience the transformative effects it has on your brain. Basically, yoga can help you rewire networks in your brain!
Also be sure to check out my article on 10 benefits of the yoga practice to find more fascinating benefits of yoga on our physical and mental well-being.
Yoga Fun Fact 2: A “Yoga University” Exists in India
Delving deeper into the world of yoga, we find the Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (S-VYASA), a unique institution functioning as a “Yoga University.” Founded in 1986 in Bengaluru, India, S-VYASA is dedicated to scientific research and the study of yoga. It seamlessly blends traditional yoga teachings with modern scientific methodologies, offering academic programs, research initiatives, and yoga therapy courses. Through its contributions, S-VYASA has played a significant role in advancing the understanding and integration of yoga into various fields.
Yoga Fun Fact 3: Yoga has Ancient Origins
To truly appreciate yoga, we must recognise its ancient origins. The earliest written mention of yoga can be traced back over 5,000 years to the Indian scriptures called the Vedas. These sacred texts contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings. Within this vast body of knowledge, yoga is celebrated for its transformative power, guiding individuals towards self-realisation and spiritual growth.
Part of the Vedas are the Upanishads, another important philosophic text in yogic history, which concluded the Vedas. Of course there is also the Bhagavad Gita and the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. Both of these scripts formed a base for Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, the first systematic and comprehensive philosophical guide to Yoga.
Interestingly, the physical practice of yoga, as we know it today, only originated much later. The first physical poses of Yoga developed with Hatha Yoga around the 9th century CE. Hatha Yoga formed the basis of styles such as Ashtanga and Iyengar, which only developed around the late 19th, early 20th century and from the basis for all yoga styles we know nowadays.
Yoga Fun Fact 4: Hanuman and the Splits
Hindu mythology weaves captivating tales of gods and goddesses, with Hanuman, the monkey god, standing out for his unwavering devotion and extraordinary strength. Among his legendary feats was leaping across the ocean to reach Lanka, in order to rescue Lord Rama’s wife, Sita, who had been abducted there.
The tale of Hanuman’s leap is not only a testament to his physical prowess but also symbolises his unwavering determination, selfless devotion, and the limitless possibilities that lie within each individual. Hanuman’s split-like leap has become an inspiration for practitioners of yoga, particularly in the pose known as Hanumanasana, or the splits pose.
Yoga Fun Fact 5: The Power of Mantras
Mantras, sacred sounds or chants, hold immense power within the realm of yoga and meditation. Mantras have been used for thousands of years as a powerful tool in various spiritual traditions, including yoga and meditation. The word “mantra” is derived from the Sanskrit words “manas,” meaning mind, and “tra,” meaning instrument or tool. Together, they suggest that mantras are instruments of the mind, capable of shaping and transforming our consciousness.
Repeating mantras, such as the timeless “Om” or “Aum,” profoundly impacts the mind and spirit. These powerful vibrations help focus the mind, increase self-awareness, and promote a sense of calm and inner peace. The repetition of mantras creates a meditative state, allowing practitioners to tap into their innermost being and connect with the universal consciousness.
Each mantra carries a specific vibration that corresponds to different aspects of our being. When chanted or repeated, mantras help to balance and harmonise our energy centres, known as chakras, promoting a sense of alignment and well-being. The resonance created by the sound vibrations of mantras has a profound effect on our subtle energy system.
Embracing mantras can deepen your spiritual practice and bring harmony to your life. A fun way to practice mantras is using the mala beads to count 108 repetitions of your chosen mantra.
Yoga Fun Fact 6: Yoga Nidra~The Yoga of Sleep
Deepening our exploration, we encounter Yoga Nidra, also known as “yogic sleep.” While the term “yogic sleep” may sound contradictory, it refers to a state of deep relaxation where the body rests while the mind remains fully alert and attentive.
The practice of Yoga Nidra involves lying down in a comfortable position while a guide leads you through a systematic meditation. Yoga Nidra can be practiced by people of all ages and physical capabilities. You can use it as a separate practice, or as a complement to a yoga or meditation practice. Yoga Nidra has various benefits, such as inducing deep relaxation and conscious awareness, and providing access to the subconscious mind. It helps release deep-seated tensions, promotes healing, and encourages profound relaxation.
The practice of Yoga Nidra is known to reduce stress and enhance overall well-being, because it activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for promoting rest, relaxation, and healing. Therefore, a Yoga Nidra practice can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, balance hormones, and support overall physical and mental well-being. A regular practice can lead to a reduction in anxiety, better sleep quality, improved immune function, and increased energy levels.
Yoga Fun Fact 7: Chakras~Energy Centers of the Body
Within the yogic philosophy, the human body is believed to contain seven main energy centers called chakras. These chakras, located along the spine from the base to the crown of the head, correspond to different aspects of life and consciousness. Each chakra is associated with specific qualities and is influenced by various yoga practices.
The chakras can become imbalanced due to various factors such as physical or emotional stress, traumas, or negative thought patterns. Imbalances can manifest as physical ailments, emotional disturbances, or a sense of disconnection. Balancing and harmonising the chakras involves practices such as yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound therapy, and energy healing, which help to remove blockages and restore the smooth flow of energy.
It is said that when all the Chakras are open and balanced, energy can flow through the Sushumna Nadi to the crown of the head and help individuals achieve bliss.
Stay tuned for our series of Chakra articles coming over the next months!
Yoga is a profound and multifaceted practice that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. Exploring the impact of yoga on brain function, the existence of institutions like S-VYASA, its ancient origins, mythical connections to Hanuman, the transformative power of mantras, the practice of Yoga Nidra, and the significance of chakras provides a deeper understanding of this ancient discipline. By delving into these fascinating fun facts, you open doors to a richer experience of yoga, unlocking its incredible potential for personal development, well-being, and a profound connection to oneself and the world. Which will be your next fun fact to share in class? 🙂
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