What is Yoga?
The term yoga has been in use for several thousand years and has shifted in meaning many times. Much has been written, and much confusion created. In the West, this has led to many people believing that Yoga is a type of religion, or that it is somehow mystical and only for an elite few. Many are put off by the over-spiritual side of yoga. In reality, yoga is simply about leading a compassionate, fulfilling, happy, healthy, ethical and moral life. I have tried to outline in a clear and simple way what Yoga means to me, where it came from and how it can fit for everyone in today’s world. Back to basics.
The word yoga comes from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. It is a derivation of the word yuj, which means ”to yoke” or “unite”. Yoga is said to be for the purpose of uniting the mind, body and spirit, to reach a point of enlightenment or self-realisation.
It is believed that all contemporary practise of yoga evolved from the Yoga Sutras of Patajali, a series of aphorisms (or written observations) written c. 250 CE. According to Patanjali, there are eight “limbs” or steps (Ashtanga in Sanskrit) of yoga. Traditional yoga is therefore known as the 8-Limb Path. Each limb is a step relating to an aspect of achieving a healthy and fulfilling life, and each builds upon the one before it.
Where do Yoga Poses fit in?
The third step or limb in Yoga involves the practise of physical yoga postures, known as Asana, or Hatha Yoga. Hatha yoga is about creating balance in the body, in order for the mind to be calm, through developing both strength and flexibility. This is done through the performance of poses or postures, each of which has specific physical benefits. The poses can be done quickly in succession, creating heat in the body through movement (vinyasa-style yoga) or more slowly to increase stamina and perfect the alignment of the pose.
But if the physical practise of Yoga is only the third step, then what precedes it?
Yama & Niyama – Ethics & Morals
The first two limbs of Yoga are the yamas and niyamas and they form an ethical and moral framework, which are considered consistent with achieving over-all health and well-being. Below is a list of the yamas and ni yamas as laid out by Pantajali, followed by a brief affirmation about each one.
The Yamas:
Ahimsa (Non-Violence)
“I try to focus my thoughts and actions with compassionate awareness. I take care of and cherish myself and others. I try not to cause to ripples of harm through my deeds, words and thoughts. Although the mind may sometimes entertain thoughts of fears, anger or selfishness, I do not get caught in these thoughts or act upon them. I accept, without judgements, any uncomfortable mental states. I release them and return to gentle, non-violent expression of my energy.”
Satya (Truth)
“I try to live with truth. I speak the truth to myself and to others, in the spirit of kindness and compassion. I also take responsibility for my actions. I do not blame anyone for my experience; I aim to honestly see my own part in every situation.”
Asteya (Non-Stealing)
“I live in gratitude for all I have. I respect the possessions and talents of others and release my desires to own objects or talents I do not have. I appreciate my life as it is.”
Brahmacharya (Moderation)
“I am moderate in my lifestyle. I treat myself and others with respect, recognizing the inherent Divinity in all people. I choose not to spend my energy on not-so-purposeful actions (and thoughts and worries), but direct them towards those that will serve me better and lead to more happiness, purpose and union.”
Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness)
“I release attachment to other people, to materials, to dreaming, to achieving success in my actions. I honor myself as I cultivate simplicity. I recognize the difference between a ‘want’ and a ‘need’. I create inner fulfillment.”
The Niyamas:
Saucha (Purity)
“I cultivate purity in my body by practicing yoga, pranayama (expansion of the breath), meditation, mindfulness, and by a wholesome diet.”
Santosha (Contentment)
“I am content. I am grateful for what I have and for what I do not have. I learn from the joys and disappointments Life brings me. I honor the good in myself and others, and the environment around me. I refrain from criticism and fault-finding. I enjoy Life!”
Tapas (Austerity)
“I cultivate discipline in my life. I do not drain my energy by over effort and overwork. My purpose is clear, my mind is decisive.”
Swadyaya (Self-Observation/Self-Study)
“I practice conscious awareness on my yoga mat and throughout the day. I study through reading and listening to inspirational teachings. I expand my self-knowledge and reflect upon my life with acceptance.”
Ishvara-Pranidhana (Surrender of the Self)
“I surrender my ego, my false pride, to devotion and service. I liberate my “self” and honor the Divinity or Essence within me and within all things. I make my own offering to the greater good, to bring more beauty and love into the world. No matter whether I fail or succeed in what I do, I offer the fruits of my actions to a power that is greater than me.”
For more information on this topic:
Discover Yoga Online
SwamiJ.com
Aarohati yoga 