"Your mind should be in harmony with the functioning of the universe: your body should be in tune with the movement of the universe: body and mind should be bound as one, unified with the activity of the universe."
-Morihei Ueshiba |
The practice of Yoga began in India thousands of years ago. Roughly translated, yoga means union of mind and body with God. Although, at the time of its invention, yoga encompassed religious philosophy, it is not a religion itself and does not require religious belief.
Yoga is a science constituted by the experimental investigation of self. The knowledge that the yogi gains, through practice, is an understanding of the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit. Understanding this relationship allows the yogis to better understand her place in the universe. The practice of yoga has three major aspects, asanas, pranayama, and yoga nidra. Although I list these aspects individually, they must be unified if the yogi wishes to gain the maximum benefits.
Asanas are the yoga postures. These postures represent the exercise portion of yoga; the movements are often slow, defined, and flow with the breath. The movements are aesthetic; there is beauty in form and transition. Yet, the real beauty lies in the benefits, some of which are visible and others that are not. Asanas not only strengthen and tone muscles, reduce body fat, enhance flexibility and improve posture, they also rejuvenate cells, reduce blood pressure, and improve the performance of the heart. In order for the yogi to get the most out of these poses, they must be practiced in unison with pranayama.
Pranayama is the use of the breath in yoga exercises. This form of breathing, {nostril breathing} increases the consumption of oxygen making the yogis more alert. In yoga, breathing should be deep and long; relaxing the mind and body. In certain poses, the breath may be guided to troubled spots. For example, if the yogi is feeling pain in the right shoulder then the breath should be guided to that area in order to relieve tension. The breath is also used to enhance the asana. By manipulating the pattern of breathing the yogis can often increase the intensity of a pose. Without the breath, the yogi limits herself to physical ability creating a gap in the "union" between mind and body.
Yoga Nidra is meditation. It is this process which allows the yogi to reflect on the union and to truly feel its power. It is a time to escape from the outside world and bask in inner peace. Meditation opens the gates to the inner-self; it teaches self-reliance, confidence, and awareness. It also teaches the yogi to let go of trivial inflictions, relieving unnecessary stress and guiding awareness to that which is important.
It is only through understanding ourselves that we are able to understand the world around us. Yoga provides an outlet from a surreal existence through a spiritual journey of inner truth and enlightenment, creating a balance in being.
Below are a few of my favorite poses. It is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach; I like to practice early in the morning. The yogi must be in tune with her body, paying close attention to her limitations. Remember to breath though the nose and use the breath to your advantage.