Understanding the basics of Yoga is essential to getting the maximum results. Yoga practices can produce quite a range of amazing benefits. However, in order to get the maximum results highly appreciated by devoted yoga practitioners, there are a series of basic principles that any yogi has to respect and practice regularly.

Most of these rules are related to proper relaxation methods, to the right techniques of breathing, the proper diet practitioners should follow and, lastly to thinking positively and trying to meditate objectively on the surrounding realities.

Generally speaking, all basic yoga principles underline the importance of self-discipline, self-control, self-determination and focus, as important methods of achieving the status promoted by the yoga ideology. Although at the beginning, yogi might feel overwhelmed with the richness and the vastness philosophy and practice of yoga, there is however, a series of basic principles, which can help early stage yoga practitioners understand better this ideology.

Here are some of the fundamental principles of Yoga practice:

* Total relaxation of your body and mind is required in order to revitalize your nervous system, achieve inner peace and feel relaxed and refreshed. There can be no physical relaxation without the mental; no mental relaxation without the physical.

* Your body was designed to move and exercise, which is why, by correctly practicing the yoga exercises, including stretching and toning your muscles, you can increase the flexibility of your joints and spines and contribute to improving your blood circulation. As you begin your first Deep Relaxation exercises, try to bear in mind that the object of what you will do is to quiet your nerves and rest your body by ridding yourself of all conscious tension and contraction.

* Furthermore, it is vital to learn how to breathe correctly while performing the yoga movements, so that you may achieve the desired state of harmony and purification. Rhythmic and full breathing, using the lungs entirely, in order to increase the quantity of oxygen you intake, is the most recommended. The breathing techniques promoted by yogi have the purpose of relaxing your mind and increasing your energy level.

* Yogis are convinced that what we eat strongly affects our spiritual awareness, which is why when practicing yoga, it is highly recommended to watch your diet. It is clear that the things we eat nourish both our body, as well as our soul, and as a consequence, a balanced diet, based on natural products is a top priority. Proper eating implies not the things you eat, but it also involves eating moderately and only when you are hungry. After all, there is no logic in eating only for lack of other activities. Additionally this habit can lead to obesity and many other undesirable side effects.

* Many philosophical concepts, including yoga practices, state that the manner in which we think strongly affects our way of living. I am a firm believer in this concept. As a result, it is always recommended to meditate on positive events and to try to eliminate any negative thoughts, in order to gain control over your own mind.

As a final conclusion, it is vital to understand and be aware of the above mentioned principles, in order to maximize the positive effects of your yoga practice.