Yoga

What is yoga?

In a nutshell, yoga is the art of living consciously. It is the discipline of being present, of being mindful, and of breathing in the now. It is the daily practice of an ancient tradition which holds as its ultimate achievement - enlightenment, but it is also a path which puts emphasis on the process. Thus, one who practices yoga may receive benefits in the moment and ultimately. Yoga is harmonious living to achieve physical, mental and spiritual balance.

Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj" meaning "to yoke" or "to join". The most common translation is that yoga is "union" of the individual self with the supreme Self. This is the goal of enlightenment or self-realization. Over millennia the oral tradition of yoga was passed on from teacher to student and many schools or systems of thought arose. The most significant of them all is the system of Classical Yoga, also known as Raja (Royal) Yoga. Pantanjali is the rishi known to compile all of the teachings of Classical Yoga into 195 sutras. Sutra means thread, and these 195 threads are said to yoke or bind one closer to the goal of self-realization. This path is now known as the Eight Fold Path of Pantanjali.

Pantanjali's yoga is comprised of 8 limbs:

1. Universal ethical principles or Restraint of the unethical (Yama)
2. Discipline of personal conduct (Niyama)
3. The practice of Yoga postures (Asana)
4. The practice of Yoga breathing techniques or breath control (Pranayama)
5. Control of the Senses or sense-withdrawal (Pratyahara)
6. Concentration of the mind (Dharana)
7. Meditation (Dhayana)
8. Absorption in the Infinite or ecstasy (Samadhi)

Value of Yoga Asana

Most people associate yoga with "holding poses", or doing the asanas. This one aspect of yoga is of tremendous value by itself. The benefits of physical asanas are numerous:

* Creates balance & harmony in mind, body and soul
* Cultivates a sense of well being and calm
* Improves concentration and creativity
* Builds endurance, strength, and flexibility
* Cleanses and purifies the nervous system
* Improves circulation and strengthens the immune system
* Reduces stress, tension, insomnia and depression
* Lowers blood pressure
* Increases metabolism and energy
* Massages internal organs
* Boosts self-esteem
* Improves posture