Best defined as a series of systematic movements involving controlled breathing and meditation, yoga relaxes the body and mind and brings them into balance and harmony
History of the healing form

The practice of Yoga or yuj in ancient Sanskrit, dates back over 6,000 years. The term Yoga means "union" not only between mind and body, but union of the spirit with the Supreme Being. In India, the practice of Ayurveda or science of the body is always a precursor to the study of yoga. The belief is that unless the body is strong, the spirit cannot be strengthened. While little is known of Pantajali, referred to as the father of yoga, his writings describe the eight branches or limbs of yoga which include: cleansing, posture, regulation of the nervous system, contemplation, concentration, awakening one's inner awareness, and developing a state of perfect equilibrium.

While yoga is practiced in many different ways, the purpose remains fundamentally the same--to unite the body and spirit. Some of the more common forms of yoga practiced and taught in the East are hatha, kundalini, and rija yoga. The posture and breathing techniques are relatively easy to learn, and classes are a fun and safe way to learn yoga.