Yoga is seeking and discovering the universal reality, following a set of physical and mental exercises. This truth is revealed when there is complete harmony and peace between body, mind and spirit. In Sanskrit, the word yoga is derived from 'yog' which means yoke or to join. More contemporary rewards of yoga are accomplishing physical beauty, youth and vitality that make it so popular. Yoga is not a new concept; its roots can be followed up to 5,000 years back. It was first developed by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization of Northern India. In the Vedas, one of the oldest Hindu sacred texts, yoga was mentioned. Later, priests modified and documented their practices of yoga; its present, organized presentation through 'yoga sutras' came much later. Yoga was brought to the West about 300 years ago. All ancient and modern practitioners believe that the eight limbs of yoga soothe the frayed mind and make us use our creative energy productively.
Yoga students learn yama or self-discipline; it enables them to avoid violence, theft and having unreasonable desires. Niyama insists on leading a clean and pure life; a life of severity and being satisfied with little worldly goods. It is also a kind of living when you are knowledgeable about the Divine power. Asanas are the variety of postures or physical exercises. Breathing exercises or pranayama is another limb. Drawing into oneself is known as pratyahara. Focusing the mind to a central point is called dharana. Meditative practice is dhyana and samadhi is to achieve the sublime realization.
Taking up all the eight limbs of yoga will provide you with a composure that is denied while running from one errand to the next in routine life. You will be able to look at all features of life; joy and misery, sickness and health, pleasure and pain, affluence and depravity; with calmness and acceptance. Yoga instructs you on how to be and how to act. It has a universal appeal as you are always welcome to use your own theology to guide you to the elevated levels of performance. If you believe that yoga is only an exercise, means to having a fit body, then you are wrong! Yoga is a complete discipline, it first tones and shapes you physically since a weak body prevents development of the spirit. Once your body acquires perfection, stamina and strength, spiritual growth will start till equanimity of all elements is accomplished.
You can gain from any of the six branches of yoga. Hatha yoga uses physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation. This is the most familiar and popular branch of yoga in the West. Bhagti yoga is about dedication and devotion to the creator. Its practitioners see Divine power in everything and feel themselves to be a part of it. Raja yoga teaches self-control. Jnana or yoga of the mind aims to unite the wisdom and intellect. Yoga of service, Karma develops selflessness in soul. Tantra yoga is adopting a set of rituals; its followers must be pure, humble, devoted and truthful.
Yoga students learn yama or self-discipline; it enables them to avoid violence, theft and having unreasonable desires. Niyama insists on leading a clean and pure life; a life of severity and being satisfied with little worldly goods. It is also a kind of living when you are knowledgeable about the Divine power. Asanas are the variety of postures or physical exercises. Breathing exercises or pranayama is another limb. Drawing into oneself is known as pratyahara. Focusing the mind to a central point is called dharana. Meditative practice is dhyana and samadhi is to achieve the sublime realization.
Taking up all the eight limbs of yoga will provide you with a composure that is denied while running from one errand to the next in routine life. You will be able to look at all features of life; joy and misery, sickness and health, pleasure and pain, affluence and depravity; with calmness and acceptance. Yoga instructs you on how to be and how to act. It has a universal appeal as you are always welcome to use your own theology to guide you to the elevated levels of performance. If you believe that yoga is only an exercise, means to having a fit body, then you are wrong! Yoga is a complete discipline, it first tones and shapes you physically since a weak body prevents development of the spirit. Once your body acquires perfection, stamina and strength, spiritual growth will start till equanimity of all elements is accomplished.
You can gain from any of the six branches of yoga. Hatha yoga uses physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation. This is the most familiar and popular branch of yoga in the West. Bhagti yoga is about dedication and devotion to the creator. Its practitioners see Divine power in everything and feel themselves to be a part of it. Raja yoga teaches self-control. Jnana or yoga of the mind aims to unite the wisdom and intellect. Yoga of service, Karma develops selflessness in soul. Tantra yoga is adopting a set of rituals; its followers must be pure, humble, devoted and truthful.
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