What is Yoga?
Originated by the Hindus in India more than 5,000 years ago;
yoga is an ancient philosophical system that combines spiritual traditions with
physical movements and postures. Yoga has been in the West since the
1960’s, and today is becoming mainstream. Approximately 11 million
Americans practice yoga at least once a week. For many Yoga is a
lifestyle of self-discipline based on “simple living and high thinking”.
It encompasses a complete way of life for the body, mind, and spirit. It
involves living correctly, living right. One thing Yoga is not, is a
religion. However, it can deepen your religious beliefs, whatever they
may be. Yoga is a way of living that can be practiced by Buddhist,
Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and atheists.
Literally translated from Sanskrit, “yoga” means to “yoke”
or unify the body, mind, and spirit. While there are many styles of yoga
(Sivananda, Iyengar, Kundalini, Kripalu, Astanga, Kripalu, Bikram, etc.), they
are all Hatha Yoga, which incorporates a series of postures known as
“asanas”. Asanas are practiced in conjunction with pranayama (controlled
breathing) and mediation. It also is said to have a protective or healing
effect on all your internal organs and entire body.
The Yogic Path to Inner Peace requires:
Proper Exercise – Asanas:
Asanas are designed to promote a state of well-being and good
health. They rejuvenate and balance the entire body. Yoga can be
practiced by anyone of any age, sex, or physical ability. (However, if
you do have physical limitations, you should consult your physician prior to
attending class.) Unlike other forms of exercise which strain the muscles
and bones, yoga gently rejuvenates the body through gentle stretching,
strengthening the bones and muscles, correcting posture, improving breathing,
and increasing energy. It will also help to tone and calm the
nervous system, improve circulation, release tension, and increase
flexibility.
Yogic Breathing – Pranayama:
“When the breath wanders, or is irregular, the mind is also
unsteady, but when the breath is still, so is the mind, and the Yogi lives
long. So one should restrain the breath.” Pranayama techniques are
designed to improve oxygen flow to the body and to allow us to control prana
(vital energy) in the body. This brings about mental control and prepares
us for meditation.
Proper Relaxation:
Overworking the body, over-stressing the body, diminishes its
natural efficiency. Rest and relaxation are a natural way of recharging
the body. Yogic methods retrain the body and muscles to relax completely.
People who practice asanas often find they need less sleep and feel more
rested. They quickly fall into a deep sleep allowing the body and mind to
rejuvenate.
Vegetarian Diet:
Vegetarian diet allows the body to reap the maximum benefit from
all the elements of earth. Yogic diet includes food that is easily
digested and promotes good health. Yogic diet is simple and
natural. Food has a subtle effect on the mind. It allows you to
reach a higher standard of health and peace of mind.
Positive Thinking and Meditation:
The body needs a balanced mind to stay in control. Regular
meditation will help you achieve a clear and balanced mind. It will help
you to become more focused, improving concentration. Positive thinking
will purify the intellect so you can experience wisdom and inner peace.
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