## TL;DR

Yoga is an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice originating in India (5000+ years). Modern yoga in the West focuses on: asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing), meditation. Styles: Hatha (gentle, foundational), Vinyasa (flow, breath-linked movement), Ashtanga (vigorous, set sequence), Iyengar (alignment-focused), Yin (long-held passive poses).

## Core Explanation

Key poses: Downward Dog, Warrior I/II/III, Child's Pose, Tree Pose, Cobra. Sun Salutation (Surya Namaskar): sequence of 12 poses. Benefits: flexibility, strength, balance, stress reduction, body awareness. Breath (ujjayi): ocean breath — inhale/exhale through nose with slight throat constriction. Yoga is not about touching your toes — it's about what you learn on the way down.

## Further Reading

- [Light on Yoga (B.K.S. Iyengar)](https://www.harpercollins.com/products/light-on-yoga-bks-iyengar?variant=32117613527074)