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Yoga: A Look at the Foundations of this Ancient Practice |
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 In the past few years, the popularity of the age-old practice of Yoga has grown by leaps and bounds in the western world. And, like many “exercise fads” that sweep through gyms and studios, the ensuing bombardment of various styles, classes, ideas, and over all commercialism may have clouded the approachability of yoga for many. However, a look past the hype to the 5,000 year-old foundation for personal development and wellbeing may help shed light on the practice of Yoga. The word Yoga comes from the ancient Sanskrit root word yug, which means, "to unify.” One who practices Yoga is one who consciously unifies body, mind, and spirit so that they may work together. An easy way to visualize this concept is to view the physical body as a boat, the mind as the sea, and the spirit as the course of the voyage. When the mind is still, the sea is calm, and wind fills the sails of growth and progress. When the mind is hectic with thoughts, memories and emotions, the sea is turbulent, and the boat is pounded by waves while struggling to keep its direction. What many of us do not realize is that the mind and body are in a state of constant interaction. This means, how you feel physically determines how you feel mentally and how you feel mentally determines how you feel physically. Since the physical body is the easiest to recognize and work with, a common approach to Yoga begins with the asanas, or the Yoga postures. These are the poses that come to mind when one pictures a Yoga class. Physically, the asanas work each part of the body to release and lengthen muscles, increase fluidity in the joints, promote flexibility of the entire skeletal system, and improve alignment and posture. They benefit the internal organs, glands, and nerves as well. Mentally, a profound concentration is utilized in achieving each posture, helping reduce the waves of external thoughts, thereby calming the mind. Also, a focus is placed on deep, controlled breathing, which enhances the flow of oxygen to the brain and body, thus erasing stress and increasing energy. The single-mindedness involved with breath and asana move the practitioner into a meditative state, or into connection with the spirit. In time and with practice, this state can be cultivated throughout all aspects of life, and one’s course can be charted from the soul. The benefits of Yoga are felt immediately, and Yoga is right for all body types. In a day and age where the average concentration span is said to be less than 6 seconds, an active pursuit of a still mind is vital to overall health and wellbeing. The physical work of asanas are simply a scratch into the infinite benefits that the world of Yoga has to offer any who wish to unify mind, body, and spirit. But, they provide a great way to instantly feel what Yoga can do. Without a heavy work agenda and the always-in-a-rush frame of mind, vacation is a great time to explore the benefits of yoga. Remember that finding the right Yoga studio and teacher can be as personal as finding the right doctor or dentist. Try a few until you find one that fits ‘just right.’ Namasté. |
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© Sac-Be International, Inc.
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