During the latter parts of the eighteen hundreds an Indian philosopher, Swami Vivekanada, toured the United Stets and Canada, introducing a unique new discipline called Asana. He preached a doctrine of holistic development of the mind, the body and the spirit. His philosophy found almost instant acceptance and to this day millions of people practice this unique discipline. With Asana, more popularly known as yoga Reno citizens have learned that personal development does not need to be costly or difficult.

Many people still misunderstand the central concept of Asana. Some think that it is a strange new form of exercise. Many others think that it is a religion based upon Hinduism. None of this is true. Instead, Asana is a philosophy that promotes the holistic development of the minds, spirit and body of its practitioners. It aims at personal growth, contentment, increased health and happiness.

The basis of Asana focus on the mastery of numerous stretching exercises and poses. These exercise and pose are not the true purpose of Asana, however. They only serve as tools to help practitioners to attain focus and to help them to improve their minds, their bodies and their spirits. Newcomers should realise that there are several approaches to this discipline. Some forms are more strenuous and others more relaxed.

Many practitioners of Asana simply love the fact that this discipline does not involve any form of competition. Classes routinely consist of individuals that are at various levels of achievement. Nobody is forced to progress at a predetermined pace. Another attraction is that it is possible for almost anyone to practise Asana, ranging from the very young to the elderly. Even disabled people can participate and benefit.

Empirical studies of Asana has shown that this philosophy holds many health benefits. Patients with high blood pressure, asthma, heart disease, some forms of cancer and depression, to name just a few have benefited from practising Asana. Practitioners find that they are calmer, more subtle, fitter and more positive about life when they regularly perform their exercises and routines. They also benefit greatly from the social interaction with others in their group.

Another great benefit is that it is not expensive or difficult to get started with Asana. You do not need special equipment or clothes. You can get going on your own in the comfort of you own home if you wish. Experts agree, however, that it is beneficial to attend at least a few beginners classes with a reputable instructor. It is necessary to find and adopt the specific approach to this philosophy that will best suit the individual concerned.

There are lots of resources for those that want to get going with Asana. Not only does every bookshop stock numerous resources, but the internet also offer a myriad of sites aiming at helping people to get going. Many sites offer free training videos and some even offer forums where practitioners can exchange experiences, ask advice or join each other for physical interaction.

Millions of people all over the world have taken to yoga. They claim that this philosophy has improved their lives. They feel fitter, happier and emotionally stable. It seems as if there can be little doubt that Asana will not only remain popular but keep growing in popularity.