Yoga and the "Yoga Sutra" can not be separated. keeping a consistent practice, not only changes our body, but also our mind and spirit.
Yoga books tells us that yoga, as we all know, is aimed to unite the mind, body and the spirit. As we practice yoga we realize the mind and the body are one and, if practiced correctly, can find harmony and heal itself. Yoga, therefore, is considered therapeutic as it helps you to become more aware of your body’s posture, alignment and patterns of movement. It makes the body more flexible and helps you relax even in the midst of a stressful environment. This is one of the foremost reasons why people want to start practicing yoga – to feel fitter, be more energetic, be happier and peaceful.
Yoga is a science that has been practiced for thousands of years. There are many ancient observations and principles regarding the body & mind connection which are now being proven through substantial research and modern medicine. Substantial research has been conducted to look at the health benefits of yoga, not only the Yoga postures (Asanas) but also Yoga Breathing (Pranayama) and Meditation. It is found that yoga has a physiological, psychological and biochemical effect on us with consistent practice. Years ago yoga was almost unheard of... The only people participating were either Easterners or young, strange looking women in brightly colored, flowing clothing. Nowadays, yoga and meditation are extremely popular for all sexes and age groups and for numerous reasons:
· A FORM OF FITNESS EXERCISE FOR ALL AGES
· DAILY PRACTICE REVERSES BODY AGING
· MANAGE STRESS AND CREATES PEACE
· LOSE WEIGHT
· STRENGTHENS BONES AND MUSCLES IE. BODY
· HEALS YOUR BODY AND INJURIES
· VERY LITTLE TIME AND SPACE IS NEEDED
· BALANCE IN YOUR LIFE
· CREATES POSITIVE FEELINGS
WHAT IS YOGA
When the word Yoga is mentioned, most people think only of the physical practice of stretching and relieving pain from tightened muscles, or as meditation and a way of reducing stress and, with consistent practice, it does help accomplish these things, however, that is only a small part of yoga.
Yoga is not a religion, but a journey of self-discovery, who we really are, the soul, the light or Spirit within. We all experience frustration, irritation and insecurity, among other emotions, which, in turn, take painful tolls on our physical bodies, causing us to question the way we think, feel and act. It is precisely this that makes Yoga less than a physical exercise and more of a spiritual journey into self. As my teacher says, “When we want to get out of a pose, is exactly when we need to stay in it". Just like in life, having the strength and faith to overcome challenges even when we feel unable to stand against them.” Once we shift our focus from the physical act to the actual practice, we allow ourselves to delve deeper into the sub-conscious, where we hide certain thoughts and emotions, and bring them to the surface. When we face them versus burying them, we bring about a better state of health and well-being or simply a feeling of peacefulness.
There are many different studies of yoga and, while all are very helpful for the body, mind and spirit, it can be confusing deciding which to study. Some practices, such as Hatha, Kundalini, Bhakti, Jnana and Kirtan, just to name a few, are expressed through physical postures, dance, chanting or mantras, while others through spiritual study, which is what I will introduce to you on this site.