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What
is Yoga?
Yoga
means Union or to yoke. It is derived from the ancient Indian
language Sanskrit word Yuj - meaning to yoke or unite. Union of what? It
is the union of one's Self with the Supreme being. Why unite these two?
The Self of the human being is not in a state where it would be devoid of
all negative influences, the state necessary to understand the object in
completeness; such a state is necessary for one to realize his or her
utmost potential. In such a state, the being would have the total focus
that he would be part of the object he or she is the subject of which.
When human beings were first created, they were close to the Supreme being
or God or the perfect One. As the world evolved, humankind became more and
more distant from Him. Yoga prescribes the path for reaching this ultimate
state necessary for one to be part of Him again. In other words, as stated
in the Yoga Sutras (Ch 1. v2), Yoga is the suppression of the modifications
of the mind. Devoid of such modifications, one's mind can be in the ideal
state. Back to top
What is the path to Yoga? How do different forms of Yoga differ in
achieving the goal of Yoga?
The
aim of Yoga is total self-realization. To achieve this, many forms of Yoga
prescribe differing paths. Jnana Yoga or the yoga of knowledge says one
can attain the goal by pursuit of knowledge. Bhakthi Yoga or the yoga of
devotion says devotion to God is such a way. Karma yoga or the yoga of
work says, through selfless work one can attain the goal. Raja Yoga
prescribes 8 steps to this goal.
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What
are the eight steps of Raja Yoga?
Raja
Yoga, as it is classically known or more popularly called as Ashtanga Yoga
- Eight-limbed Yoga - advocates eight steps or stages the human being must
pass through. The first step is Yama or rules.
Niyamas or restraints, asana or posture, pranayama or control of breath or
the life force, pratyahara or withdrawal of senses, dharana or concentration,
dhyana or meditation and samadhi or Self-realization are the other
steps (Yoga Sutras Ch 2. v 29).
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What
is Hatha Yoga?
The
practice of postures and control of breath constitutes Hatha Yoga. Thus
Hatha Yoga is a sub-set of Raja Yoga. Its focus is on the physical aspects. Hatha Yoga prepares the adept in his or her
complete conquest of the
Self. Back
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Can anybody practice Yoga?
Anyone irrespective of race, religion, creed or caste can
practice Yoga. There is no specification as to the physical abilities of one
starting Yoga. Thus people of all ages and abilities can practice
Yoga. Of course, depending on one's physical abilities the practice has to
be suitably modified and this is best done by an experienced
teacher.
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What if I have physical disabilities or suffer from ailments?
Ch 1. v 64 of
the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the ancient text on Hatha Yoga, states
that one, whether, young or old, sick or feeble, one can attain perfection
by practicing. Before starting any form of physical exercise, it is always
advisable to consult your doctor. Yoga can be tailored to address
any physical abilities or ailments. In fact, Yoga is known to be
beneficial to countering ailments such as osteoporosis, high blood
pressure, PMS, high cholesterol, stress and anxiety, sciatica, etc. Make
sure your teacher understands the disabilities. An experienced teacher is
mindful that everyone has limitations and will gladly work with you in
helping you feel comfortable. Frank White, a renowned Yoga teacher,
started yoga at the age of 66 after getting tired of taking daily
medications for many ailments such as osteoporosis, high cholesterol,
arteriosclerosis. After eight years of practice he was able to totally
stop taking medications and carry on a medication-independent life.
What is the best way to make the practice of Yoga a habit?
Establishing a routine helps one keep up the practice. Sticking to a
specific time of the day and to a specific place helps. Yoga texts specify
early morning as the best time to practice Yoga. This is because the mind
is in its most relaxed and open state and is suitable for one to inquire
into one's Self the most. A well lighted, ventilated and quiet place is
recommended. In today's hectic, survival-mode world, early morning
practice may be impractical for most of the people given the time needed
to prepare for the day, commute to work, etc, but a suitable time should
be considered based on one's circumstances.
Also, constantly keep in touch with Yoga. Keeping the Yoga mat in sight
can help keeping up the practice much easier. Keep reading about Yoga.
Subscribe to a Yoga Magazine.
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What
are some of the pre-requisites for starting a Yoga session?
An
open mind, empty stomach and comfortable clothing is essential. Read the
pre-requisites
for a more detailed explanation.
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How do I start the practice? Should I learn on my own?
It
is best if you can attend an experienced teacher's classes. Start with the
beginner's class such as the
Gentle Yoga
Class. In the ancient past, the only way to learn Yoga was to study with a
teacher. Yoga was kept a secret for the fear that one may
learn it incorrectly and could be harmed thus. Thus there were not
much written material and such material, where available, was limited in
distribution. Today, there is a proliferation of Yoga classes around the world
and teachings are available in print in vast quantities. While one can
learn, on their own, the basic Yoga postures
and simple breathing techniques from books,
it is best if you have the guidance of an experienced teacher. An
experienced teacher can tailor the postures to suit your specific
situation and make you more aware of the pitfalls of a wrong practice.
Seek a teacher who has a number of years of experience in the practice.
Today anybody can attend a 2 week course and get certified. It is
essential that those who teach Yoga, love and practice Yoga regularly. A
registered yoga teacher with a governing body such as Yoga Alliance -
www.yogaalliance.org - has
verifiable experience and meets or exceeds the standards set by the body.
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How can I avoid injuries?
It
is important to learn Yoga correctly than being able to do, say a posture,
'more' than somebody else. The incorrect practice of Yoga can lead to many
side-effects and/or injuries, both physical and mental. The main rule of
thumb in practicing the asanas is to know your comfort zone and to slowly
extend it with practice. Common sense and a respect for one's own body is
of primary importance in avoiding injuries. Also
remember Yoga is not competitive but a more exploratory endeavor.
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Should I use props?
Absolutely.
Props are supports that help one in learning the postures with confidence
and the feeling that the risk of injury will be reduced. Props such as
ties, blocks, wedges or specially designed equipment like benches for back
bend are very useful especially for those less flexible.
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