Traditional Integral Yoga

Integral yoga is all about unity. It works to combine all the parts of one's being to work harmoniously together and for us to exist harmoniously in the world.

True to its goals, Integral yoga combines several elements of other types of yoga as part of its practice and philosophy. Integral yoga is ideal for individuals who want an activity that addresses all aspects of their lives.

Integral yoga is also is a good type of yoga for individuals that are looking to regularly perform a yoga routine but have no experience doing so.

Traditional Integral yoga was first introduced in 1921 by Sri Aurobindo, an Indian freedom fighter against British rule during the early 20th century. Aurobindo sought to blend ideas from Western and Eastern psychology, philosophy, literature, and religion in the practice of Integral yoga from a traditional sense.

Types of Movements

Integral yoga uses a variety of poses, but meditation and breath control are the most important aspects of the practice. Thus, the positions themselves are not as demanding as some of the other types of yoga. The poses are generally more relaxing and designed to facilitate meditation and a sense of oneness within the body and universe.

Mental and Physical Requirements

Integral yoga is not as physically demanding as some other types of yoga. It still does require a certain degree of flexibility, but it is accessible to beginners. The most important requirement is the ability to concentrate and relax.

Equipment Requirements

• Yoga Blocks
• Yoga Straps
• Mat
• Yoga Blanket
• Comfortable, Breathing Clothes

Mental and Physical Benefits

Mental

• Increased Well-Being
• Decreased Hostility
• Increased Social Skills
• Improved Concentration
• Improved Learning Efficiency

Physical

• Increased Respiratory Efficiency
• Improved Dexterity
• Increased Energy Level
• Improved Sleep
• Increased Immunity

Aerobic Effect

Achieving an aerobic effect is not a main focus of Integral yoga. However, like other types of yoga, breath control and positioning does improve circulation and increases the amount of oxygen in the blood.

The gentle poses and relaxation help reduce blood pressure and benefits the cardiovascular system. The relaxation poses also calm and center the mind as well.

Integral yoga focuses on achieving harmony. The balance between physical, mental and spiritual health has many benefits. It helps increase flexibility and mobility in the back, hips and other large joints, and builds and tones muscle to hold the poses.

It also reduces stress, which contributes to well-being in many ways such as improved circulation, better digestion, and more restful nights. It is one of the more spiritual and mental of the yoga types and many people are drawn to it for these benefits.