Yoga A Way of Life from Class 6 NCERT English, a lesson that highlights the importance of yoga for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Learn how yoga promotes health, peace, and balance, making it an essential practice for a happy and healthy life. Perfect for students and beginners
Definition and Origins
- Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice that began in ancient India.
- The word ‘Yoga’ comes from the Sanskrit root ‘yuj’, meaning to join or unite.
- It represents the union of mind and body, thought and action, and harmony with nature.
- Yoga is more than just exercise—it is a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Historical Context
- Sage Patanjali systematized yoga in the ‘Yoga Sutras of Patanjali’.
- He described yoga as a way to quiet the mind and remove distractions.
- This highlights the importance of mental discipline in yoga practice.
Benefits of Yoga
1. Physical Benefits
- Improves flexibility, strength, endurance, and balance.
- Helps relieve body pains like lower back pain.
- Enhances overall physical fitness.
2. Mental Benefits
- Breathing techniques and meditation calm the mind.
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
- Improves sleep quality and concentration.
3. Health Benefits
- Boosts the immune system.
- Lowers blood pressure and improves heart health.
- Helps with weight loss by burning calories.
4. Overall Well-Being
- Promotes a sense of peace and balance in life.
- Recognized worldwide for its positive impact on health.
Practice and Awareness
- Yoga should be practiced mindfully, with awareness of both body and breath.
- Asanas (postures) should be performed with focused breathing and without distractions.
- It is as much a mental practice as it is a physical one.
International Recognition
- WHO (World Health Organization) launched the WHO mYoga app on June 20, 2021, offering free yoga practice resources.
- June 21st is celebrated as International Yoga Day, declared by the United Nations General Assembly.
Activities and Engagement
- Fill-in-the-Blanks: Reinforces key benefits of yoga like focus, strength, balance, and stress relief.
- Antakshari Game: Encourages word association starting with ‘Yoga’.
- Listening Activity: Students listen and identify correct statements about yoga practice.
- Speaking Activity: Encourages students to share their thoughts and experiences with yoga.
Additional Information
- Yoga has been practiced in India since 2700 BC and has now spread worldwide.
- Many individuals have contributed to its development over time.
Summary
- The chapter “Yoga – A Way of Life” provides a complete overview of yoga.
- It highlights yoga’s physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.
- The text encourages regular yoga practice for overall well-being.
- Activities are included to engage students and reinforce key concepts.
Important Questions and Answers
Q1: What is the meaning of the word ‘Yoga’?
- A: The word ‘Yoga’ comes from the Sanskrit root ‘yuj’, meaning to join or unite.
Q2: Who systematized yoga and wrote about it?
- A: Sage Patanjali systematized yoga in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
Q3: What are some physical benefits of yoga?
- A: Yoga improves flexibility, strength, endurance, and balance. It also helps relieve body pains like lower back pain.
Q4: How does yoga benefit mental health?
- A: Yoga reduces stress and anxiety, improves concentration, and enhances sleep quality.
Q5: When is International Yoga Day celebrated, and why?
- A: June 21st is International Yoga Day, recognized by the United Nations, to promote yoga’s global health benefits.
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