East vs West in terms of fitness regimes

Today, millions of people of any age across the East and West realise the importance of regular exercise, writes Kiran Sawhney.

"I don't have time."
"I'm too old-I might hurt myself."
"I'd be too embarrassed at a gym with all those fit young people around."

Sound familiar? Maybe, one of these is the reason you aren't physically active or exercising. But, in fact, scientists now know that it's usually more dangerous to not exercise, no matter how old you are. And you don't need to buy fancy clothes or belong to a gym to become more active.

Six thousand years ago in Northern China, a tribal people settled along the shores of the Yellow River. These people had not developed a national identity and lived by tending herds, agriculture, hunting and fishing, without straying far from the banks of the river. Their chieftains had unusual powers: They knew healing secrets of plants and animals, spoke with invisible entities, and the river waters seemed to bend to their will. They were the first Taoists.

Their practices were meditation, cultivation of the body, sacred ceremonies and magical arts. Among the refined techniques, they used to nurture their health and relax their minds. There was Chi Gung - Chi Kung - Qi Gong - Qigong.

Today, millions of people of any age are learning those harmonious movements of such ancient origins, for their stress management, relaxation, and natural healing, wellness and longevity properties.

The secrets of the ancient science of Yoga were passed down from the Rishis, saints and sages who came to these very Himalayas for divine inspiration. Through their meditation, austerities and prayers, a treasure-chest of wisdom was bestowed upon them for the benefit of humanity. Yoga literally means Union; it is a union of breath to the body, of the mind to the muscles, and most importantly of the self to the divine.

Yoga is not a religion. It does not require you to believe in a certain God or to chant certain hymns. It is an ancient science, which leads to health in the body, peace in the mind, joy in the heart and liberation of the soul. It is the most secular and universal system for human salvation.

Different forms of yoga: Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga provide a complete system of self transformation and self realization, which are the ultimate goals of human existence. Yoga has been proven as a scientific method for curing and preventing common as well as rare, acute diseases.