Yoga is quite popular all over the world, even in the West, but Pilates is not so well known. But, recent internet surveys show that there is not a very big difference between Yoga and Pilates. Though Yoga is searched for approximately four times as much as Pilates, the reason is that people are far more familiar with Yoga. Surprisingly, the difference is far less than expected. So, it seems that Pilates exercises and equipment are being embraced in the health world more and more, where yoga has had a headstart for many more years.

Though Pilates and Yoga are rather disparate disciplines, people still continue to link them together. The question is why? Joseph Pilates, the man who came up with the Pilates concept, did make use of certain ancient yoga poses when first creating his system. This is probably why so there is some association between the two, and folks often seek out both together while searching for a good fitness regimen below we shall briefly discuss the similarities and differences between Yoga and Pilates. Best part is, both Pilates and Yoga can be a part of your health and exercise regime and help you improve your health.

The Pilates exercise system is actually based on ancient Yogasanas (poses) to help relieve stress and anxiety. It is the brainchild of one Joseph Pilates over eight decades ago, although for more limited and specific purposes. Pilates is not a completely holistic or balanced exercise and health regime. Even so, it is very useful. This form of exercise mainly emphasizes the need for cultivating core physical strength and stretching the spine. For decades, Pilates has been effectively practiced by dancers and, in recent years, has become more popular largely for its aesthetic body sculpting effect.

Guidelines for Pilates and Yoga practice:

• Yogasanas (poses), particularly those that abdomen compressors and inversions, must never be done on a full stomach. Above all you should listen to your body. Those who practice immediately after a meal will find many of the poses uncomfortable.
• Yogasanas (poses) are best practiced barefoot, on a nonslip Yoga mat or surface, especially for standing asanas (poses). A folded yoga blanket rug, or mat, helps provide firm padding for other poses.
• Comfortable, light and loose fitting clothing is a must, something that facilitates free movement.
• Ideally, you should practise in a well ventilated room with adequate space to stretch out your legs and arms on all sides without banging into anything.
• When practising, focus on whatever sensation the specific pose is producing in your body.
• If you are too shaky or weak in a pose, gradually exit it. In time, you will find yourself building up your strength and be able to hold the pose longer.
• Don't overstretch your own limitations, but try to surpass your boundaries gently. Practising the poses properly entails performing them to the best of your ability minus the strain, stress and tension.
• Throughout your sessions, concentrate on your breathing. Inhale and exhale completely and fully through your nostrils. If you do this with awareness you will not just feel good, you will also regulate and balance the energy flow in your body, strengthen your internal systems and boost up your resistance to illness and ailments.