Background

Yoga is a holistic science, which has been passed down for over 5,000 years from generation to generation of practitioners. Yoga is universal and has never had the status of a religion. Rather it is viewed by people as a path to body and mind development. The practice of yoga considerably improves general health, enhances body and mind relaxation, promotes a clearer spirit and fosters a friendly and compassionate nature. Yoga will be presented at the 1st Berlin Yoga Festival as a comprehensive doctrine with its medical, philosophical, cultural and sportive aspects.

1. Health

Yoga’s positive effects on overall health are nowadays very well researched and frequently described. By means of yoga postures tension is released, muscles are built up, and the basis for deep relaxation is established in combination with breathing exercises. Yoga exercises help stimulate and massage the inner organs and the glandular system. Yoga teachings on health, the Ayurveda, are enjoying increasing popularity - in Western countries, too. The health components of yoga will be explained during the Festival. Yoga will be presented as a therapy method for various diseases, including serious ones. Presentations on specific exercises and their benefits will be provided for practitioners.

2. Philosophy and Psychology

Yoga has also a strong influence on the mind through its balancing effects on the nervous system. Practising yoga brings - even after brief exercise - a noticeable improvement in mood, with anxiety and depression dissipating through regular practice. In this instance, the philosophical framework - the Vedanta philosophy - can be very useful as well. The Festival will include presentations on the psychological effects and the philosophy of yoga. There will be hands-on meditation demonstrations on site aimed at achieving a balanced and relaxed mind.

3. Arts and Culture

The culture of India, the birthplace of yoga, will be highlighted at the Festival. Music is a basic method of yoga (Nada Yoga). The Festival will include a traditional concert (sitar/tabla), a presentation of the Indian temple dance (Baratha Natyam) including workshop, and the singing of mantras, the handed-down Sanskrit verses. As a special attraction, there will be non-stop chanting of the peace mantra in a tent to build up high, particularly healing energy. A bazaar will offer handicrafts and food representing aspects of Indian culture. Modern India will be celebrated on the second evening of the Festival with a Bangra Party. An exhibition on the Festival grounds will show how people approach yoga in Europe.

4. Sports

As easy as yoga might appear when demonstrated by experienced practitioners, the physical exercises (asanas) are actually very difficult to perform. There are often many years of practice and self-discipline behind a seemingly easily executed yoga exercise. It is very positive that yoga also offers easy exercises for beginners, which virtually everyone can do and which have notable positive effects. For experienced practitioners, who have been developing their bodies through exercises (muscle building, stretching and precision) several times a week, there are sufficient challenging yoga postures. Yoga sessions will be held on site for people to join in. The traditional Yoga schools are given a platform to illustrate their systems which gives a good overview.