Solution “Yoga – A Way of Life” English Class 6 Unit 4 Chapter 3

Yoga – A Way of Life – Part 3

Let us do these activities before we read.

1. What do you know about yoga? Discuss in pairs and share with the whole class.

Ans. Yoga is an ancient practice that focuses on physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve both body and mind. It helps increase flexibility, strength, and relaxation. Yoga also promotes mental peace, concentration, and overall well-being.

2. What is 21st June known for? What do we do on this day?

Ans. 21st June is celebrated as International Yoga Day. On this day, people around the world practice yoga to raise awareness about its benefits for health and wellness. Many communities organize yoga sessions and events to promote a healthy lifestyle.

3. List as many words you know related to yoga. Share them with your classmates.

Ans.

• Asana (postures)
• Pranayama (breathing exercises)
• Meditation
• Balance
• Flexibility
• Relaxation
• Mindfulness
• Sun Salutation
• Chakra
• Mantra
• Poses
• Namaste

Let us discuss

1. Read the passage again and fill in the blanks with words from the box.

sleep, lifestyle, health, strength, calm, stress, balance

Yoga is a practice that not only improves physical flexibility but also improves mental (i) _________ and leads to a healthier (ii) __________. It involves a series of asanas, which increase muscular (iii) __________. Practicing yoga also leads to a better body and mind (iv) __________ and reduces body pain such as the lower back. Moreover, the focus on breathing techniques and meditation makes the mind (v) _________, lessens (vi) __________, and improves the quality of (vii) _________. This helps to adopt a more positive lifestyle.

Answer:

Yoga is a practice that not only improves physical flexibility but also improves mental (i)  Health  and leads to a healthier (ii)  Lifestyle.  It involves a series of asanas, which increase muscular (iii)  Strength. Practicing yoga also leads to a better body and mind (iv)  Balance  and reduces body pain such as the lower back. Moreover, the focus on breathing techniques and meditation makes the mind (v)  Calm, lessens (vi) Stress, and improves the quality of (vii)  Sleep.  This helps to adopt a more positive lifestyle.

Let us think and reflect

1. What is the aim of yoga?

Ans. The aim of yoga is to improve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being for a healthy life.

2. Explain the idea of unity in yoga.

Ans. Yoga means “union,” symbolizing the connection between the body, mind, and spirit, promoting harmony within oneself and with the world.

3. What does the launch of the WHO mYoga app tell us about the importance of yoga?

Ans. The launch of the WHO myoga app took place on 20th June 2021. The app contains collection of videos and audio files which teaches and supports yoga practice. The app aims to spread the importance of yoga among everyone through easy to use and free tools and to encourage everyone to practice yoga.

4. Describe one long-term effect that the practice of yoga can have on a person’s qualities.

Ans. Yoga develops patience, helping individuals become more mindful and calm in their daily lives.

Let us listen

You will listen to a girl talk about practicing yoga. As you listen, select four true statements from the sentences given in the table. (refer to page 129 for transcript)

1. The girl sees people at the park doing breathing exercises.  True

2. Her grandfather began practicing Yoga sixteen years ago.  False

3. The girl practices some easy Yoga exercises with her grandfather. True

4. The girl practices breathing exercises to relax. True

5. Her grandfather is fit even though he has untimely meals.  False

6. Her grandfather’s regular Yoga practice has kept him strong.  True

7. The girl wishes to learn asanas over the weekend.  True

Let us write

Write a short paragraph on ‘The Benefits of Yoga’. You may use the following sentence starters along with your own ideas to create the paragraph.

Yoga is important because it helps both the body and mind stay healthy. One benefit of yoga that interests me is how it reduces stress and promotes relaxation. Practicing yoga can help people improve their flexibility, build strength, and focus better in daily tasks. A popular yoga pose is the  Downward Dog  because it stretches and strengthens many muscles at once. Yoga is not just physical exercise; it also helps improve mental well-being through breathing exercises and meditation. Finally, yoga can be a great way to maintain a balanced lifestyle and achieve inner peace.

Let us explore

1. Do you know?

• A few seals of the Sindhu-Sarasvati Civilization, dating back to 2700 BC, indicate that yoga was prevalent in ancient India. Many
people contributed to its development and now, yoga has spread all over the world. On 11th December 2014, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) with 193 members accepted the proposal to celebrate ‘21st June’ as ‘International Yoga Day’.

Answer:

Yes, I am fully aware that the 21st of June is ‘International Yoga Day’. Our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the first International Day of Yoga on June 21st, 2015, on the theme Yoga for Harmony and Peace

2. Find out about two asanas and their benefits, and share your findings with your classmates and teacher. You may visit the following websites to learn more about yoga.

Answer:

Tadasana (Mountain Pose):

How to do it: Stand straight with your feet together, arms by your side, and stretch your body upward while keeping your feet grounded.

Benefits:

• Improves posture and balance.
• Strengthens the legs, abdomen, and arms.
• Increases awareness and focus.

Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose):

How to do it: Lie face down, place your palms under your shoulders, and lift your chest while keeping your lower body on the floor.

Benefits:

• Strengthens the spine and opens the chest.
• Reduces stress and fatigue.
• Improves digestion and alleviates back pain.