Yoga
"Yoga is to be known by Yoga. Yoga is the teacher of Yoga. The power of Yoga manifests through Yoga alone."
— Sage Veda Vyasa
Yoga is an integrated system of health for the holistic development of a person, whose higher purpose is to purify the body, giving one awareness and control over its internal states and rendering it fit for Meditation. The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word "Yuj" which means 'to join' or to "yoke."
In physical terms, this unity is described as the union of balancing and harmonizing the body, mind and soul. In spiritual terms, this unity is described as the union of the individual consciousness with our highest consciousness. Through the practices of various Yoga disciplines such as Asana, Pranayama, Meditation, Good Food Habits, Cleansing Methods and Healing Techniques, restlessness of the body, mind and spirit is stabilized, and we feel united with our highest consciousness.
Then there is nothing higher than this.
Ashtanga Yoga
Maharshi Patanjali divided Yoga into eight parts called Ashtanga, which literally means eight limbs. These are a progressive series of steps or disciplines which purify the body and mind, ultimately leading the Yogi to enlightenment.
Yamas
Five Social Behaviours
- Ahimsa — Non-violence
- Satya — Truthfulness
- Asteya — Non-stealing
- Brahmacharya — Self-restraint
- Aparigah — Non-possessiveness
Niyama
Five Personal Disciplines
- Shoucha — Purity
- Santosha — Contentment
- Tapa — Self discipline
- Swadhyaya — Self study
- Eshwar Pranidhan — Surrender to the Supreme
Asana
Yogic Postures
- A stable and comfortable posture which helps attain mental equilibrium.
Pranayama
Yogic Breathing
- The regulation of the incoming and outgoing flow of breath with control.
Pratyahara
Withdrawal of Senses
- The senses are directed inwards, to increase the power of mind.
Dharana
Concentration
- Concentration of mind on a chosen point within or outside the body.
Dhyana
Meditation
- Withdrawing mind from all external objects and focusing it on one point.
Samadhi
Salvation
- State of super bliss, joy and merging individual consciousness into highest consciousness.
Benefits of Yoga Asanas
Promotes all-round fitness
Strengthens muscles and ligaments
Improves blood circulation
Reduces body ache and joint pain
Helps combat depression and anxiety
Helps you sleep better
Beneficial during pregnancy
Gives inner strength and stamina
Improves memory and intellect
Fills the body with abundant energy
Regularity is the most important factor if you want to derive full benefits of the Yoga Asanas.
If you are feeling uncomfortable while doing Yoga Asanas by yourselves, do not push yourself. It will be helpful to actually sign up for some Yoga Classes where a professional teacher will guide you through each Asana.
Join a Class