What is Yoga?

The word "yoga" comes from the Sanskrit root "yuj", which means "to join" or "to yoke". Yoga has many paths, and when we  integrate the different strands , we can harmonize and evolve the whole personality.

What is often referred to as "yoga" in the Western world today is Hatha yoga which is the variation of raja yoga. Yoga is ,however , an ancient art  that harmoniously integrates  all aspects of the individual - body with mind and mind with soul. In the Yoga Sutra, compiled between 100 BCE and 500 CE, Patanjali encapsulates the essence of Yoga in four words:
                                                                                                          योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः ॥२॥
                                                                                                                                                                                      yogaś-citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ ||2||
                                                                                    Yoga stills the natural turbulence of the mind.

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Patanjali  explains that through the 8 limbed path (ashtanga ), dedicated practice and the cultivation of detachment, we will stop identifying with the thoughts, feelings, and sensations that can cause us so much emotional pain—and we will open to an experience of our true self .

The Eight Limbed  Path / Ashtanga Yoga

1. Yama (self-restraints, social observances)
2. Niyama (personal, inner disciplines)
3. Asana (postures)
4. Pranayama (pranic breathing techniques)
5. Pratyahara (sensory withdrawal)
6. Dharana (concentration or one-pointedness)
7. Dhyana (meditation)
8. Samadhi (absorption, self-realization)

In the West, what is called "yoga" are the asanas, the postures which are but one of the limbs of Yoga laid out by Patanjali. The core practice of yoga is meditation and the asanas are done, traditionally  so that the body is comfortable for pranayama and then meditation. The body is a vessel and what the asanas do is free energy  blockages allowing  for the smooth flow of prana (life force) through  the channels of our nervous systems so that we experience  greater comfort in our physical lives. 

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Benefits of Yoga

Yoga has  innumerable benefits and here are just a few to consider:

          Physical                                       Mental & Emotional                            Spiritual

• Release  of energetic blockages (which is why you have that “ ah, I feel so good effect after   class)

• Weight Loss

• Improved posture
• More restful sleep
• Increased self confidence
• Improved  digestion  and endocrine system (hormonal balance)
• Strengthening and toning the entire physical body
• Increased flexibility
• Decreased risk of injury 
• Improved immunity
• Improved breathing and the treatment of asthma
• Helpful for backache

• Pain management

• Increased range of motion through joints 

• Improved co-ordination
• Improved physical balance
• Detoxifies the body and mind
• Oxygenates the brain
• De-calcifies the pineal gland
• Stabilization of blood pressure

• alleviates depression
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Concentration, memory and attention increases
• Limitless possibilities for self awareness and growth

• Greater sense of peace and well being
• Fosters self acceptance and a better relationship with self
• Mental well being and emotional balance

• Integrates the body, mind and spirit, leading to an increased sense of wholeness
• Balances the Chakras (energy centers), which also affect our physical, mental and emotional well being
• Enlightenment!!