Ananda Marga
-marga (path) of ananda (bliss)
For the past few weeks I have been researching and practicing yoga for beginners. I have been looking for a yogi to teach me here in Iloilo but unfortunately I have not found anyone yet. But guess what – Facebook has solved my dilemma. A friend contacted me and introduced me to Ananda Marga Wellness Center. But before I get into more detail about Ananda Marga let me explain what “yoga” really is first to diminish the misconceptions about it. First of all, yoga is not a religion – it is a way of life, a lifestyle. Yoga means “union” in Sanskrit which is the language of ancient India where yoga originated, and it refers to the union between mind, body and spirit. Yoga practice involves physical postures or poses that involves stretching and creating balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility. Each pose has specific physical benefits and can be done quickly in succession, heating up the body or more slowly to increase stamina and allow concentration on the alignment of the pose. Although the approach to each pose can vary depending on the type of yoga practiced, the poses remain the same. The benefits of yoga start with general well-being. It takes a broad holistic approach that teaches people a new lifestyle, way of thinking and way of being in the world.
