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The Two Reasons Why People Start Practicing Yoga

It's not just about the stretch.
Evan Pang

There are two reasons why people start practicing yoga, according to urban wellness expert Charlotte Singmin: health and spirituality.

Yoga is known for increasing a person's flexibility, balance and muscle strength, among many other health benefits, but there's another draw — the practice of being mindful and building focus.

During a yoga session, you will be asked to set an intention, or prepare a mantra like you would in meditation. While strengthening your body, you are asked to focus on that intention to better prepare yourself for achieving that goal.

Watch the video above to find out if yoga is for you.

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Sanskrit Names Of Yoga Poses
Padmasana (Lotus Pose)(01 of15)
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In commentary on chapter 6 of the Bhagavad Gita, scholar Kesava Kasmiri wrote:
"One should yukta asita mat-parah meaning to sit with legs crossed in a lotus position or half lotus position and engage themselves in meditation of the Supreme Lord, becoming immersed in Him, who bestows ultimate bliss and who is the ultimate goal of human endeavour and existence."
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Marjaryasana (Cat Pose)(02 of15)
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Bitilasana (Cow Pose)(03 of15)
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Chaturanga (Four Limb Staff Pose)(04 of15)
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Urdhva Mukha Svanasana (Upward-Facing Dog)(05 of15)
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Tadasana (Mountain Pose)(06 of15)
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Vrksasana (Tree Pose)(07 of15)
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Utkatasana (Chair Pose)(08 of15)
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(credit:Nina Mel/Wikipedia)
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog)(09 of15)
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Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I Pose)(10 of15)
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Virabhadrasana II (Warrior II Pose)(11 of15)
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Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)(12 of15)
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Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)(13 of15)
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(credit:Kennguru/Wikipedia)
Balasana (Child Pose)(14 of15)
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(credit:Phil Payne Photography via Getty Images)
Savasana (Corpse Pose)(15 of15)
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(credit:DenizA via Getty Images)

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