It is an Indian practice of a spiritual nature which is intended for the attainment of the amalgamation with the absolute awareness and realization.
A male practitioner of this art is known as a yogi whereas a female practitioner is known as a yogini.
Out of India it is looked upon as a kind of exercise.
This practice aids the working of the mind in coordination with the body.
Often when one gets slowed down by the inability of performing activities properly owing to a confused mind, yoga helps correct this problem.
Without doubt, it can be stated that this practice is equivalent to meditation, and mutually they aim at the synchronization of the mind, the body and the spirit.
Anybody who has had the opportunity to perform this practice can not deny its positive affects on both the mind and the body.
Off the numerous physical benefits some have been briefly mentioned here.
It helps to lubricate the joints and the bones by exercising them.
Further the exercises also increase litheness and the initially unbending body can become amazingly flexible.
Even the parts that are being involuntarily being worked on become very bendable.
A total Detoxifying affect is also observed owing to the even blood circulation to all parts of the body as an outcome of the rubbing/messaging of the different parts of the body.
It aids in delaying the aging process.
As far as the mental affects are concerned it helps to achieve emotional equilibrium and combat stress management and give a feeling of well being.
Although it has no known drawbacks but it does demand dedication in regards to time.
It can also pose difficulties to people who have some sort of bodily restrictions, and many may experience discomfort and embarrassed at the prospect of making certain postures.