It would take thousands of pages to answer this question. Very briefly, "yoga" refers to the vast body of spiritual values, attitudes, precepts and techniques that have been evolving in the Indian subcontinent (and the larger world) for more than 4000 years. Yoga is the psycho-spiritual technology of self-transcendence specific to the great civilization of India. It was first introduced to the United States about 100 years ago.

By far the most popular and widespread method of yoga in the US today is Hatha Yoga. Hatha Yoga uses the practice of physical postures (asanas) and controlled breathing techniques (pranayama) designed to strengthen and integrate our bodies and minds. This prepares us for the stillness of meditation, which makes it possible to move beyond the boundaries of the ego self, to realize our truest essence, and to transcend the suffering and ignorance caused by the illusion of being disconnected.

UMass Yoga classes blend together several approaches to Hatha Yoga. You'll learn the safe practice of many individual yoga postures; you'll learn how to link them together, with healthy breathing, into invigorating and meditative flowing sequences (vinyasa); you'll learn restful restorative practices to recharge your body and relieve stress. And best of all, your yoga class will become a respite from the challenges of your day -- a time you give entirely to yourself -- a time to learn how to tap into the deep and abiding peace that is always there, even in the most demanding circumstances of your life.