Origin
HOW CAN WE DEFINE THE WORD YOGA?
Generally the word yoga is defined as “union” because it stems from the Sanskrit word “yuj” meaning to “bind” or “yoke.”
Because yoga is such a vast practice and can potentially be defined in so many different ways I would like to highlight two aspects which I personally associate with yoga.
Relationship
The first is “relationship” - Yoga is all about the relationship you have with yourself and ultimately the relationship you have with your environment.
Clarity
The second aspect is clarity or discernment (Viveka). Do you see things clearly so that you know why you are doing what you are doing?
Are you clear in your intentions and actions?
Body & Soul
YOUR YOGA PATH
Yoga at its most superficial level leads to physical health:
A body that becomes resilient, strong and supple. On the deeper levels it begins to affect the mind, behaviour and the very nature of who you are, i.e. it moves into the mental and spiritual plane.
As Sri Guru K. Pattabhi Jois used to say “practice, practice and all is coming!” How true his words are.
“You were born with wings, why prefer to crawl through life”? Rumi
Yoga is a practice that allows each and everyone of us to move forward from where we are at:
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If you are seeking physical health - you will find it!
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If you want to become fit - you will!
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If are seeking peace of mind and a break from the hassles of daily life - you will find your serenity!
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If you want to fill your life with more meaning- you will find that!
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If you want to deepen your spirituality - you will!
These are not empty promises but aspects of the practice that come to us if we are ready to commit and devote time to practicing and studying the philosophy.
