At Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana, yoga is one of the many fitness classes we offer our guests and can be the perfect way to start any day! But how much do you really know about yoga, its origins and the benefits to your health?

We’re here to tell you!

The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit root “yuj” meaning “union” and is said to have first appeared almost 3,500 years ago in spiritual texts from the region known today as India. According to one of six ancient Hindu philosophies, yoga’s main purpose is the union of the individual self with the universal self and focuses on the spiritual practices of devotion, service and knowledge.

Today, yoga has become more about physical exercise and stems from The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, a compilation of short principles that summarize a broad spectrum of spiritual teachings, and the development of hatha yoga. Hatha, meaning sun and moon, refers to a union of opposites or balance. And while hatha yoga appeared over 1,000 years ago, 20th century teacher, Krishnamacharya, is thought to be the father of modern yoga.

Not only does yoga help you lead a more stress-free life, but it also allows you to be better at your favorite activity. It can can help you withstand greater stress on your body, react more quickly and calmly to changes, and breathe more efficiently.

When participating in yoga, try to relax your mind and take yourself to a place that you enjoy most–such as one with gorgeous beaches and clear blue water! You’ll be amazed at how rejuvenated you feel!

A Yoga Session at Secrets Royal Beach