Yoga Symbols- A Spiritual Awakening

Essentially yoga symbols are simply yoga postures, and it is the practice of these postures – or symbols – which represents the most popular part of yoga practice of all. Some people in fact attempt to regard the study of these postures sometimes independently without actually correlating it with other essential parts of yoga practice, such as mental activity, concentration and breathing while the yoga symbols or postures are being performed.
There are also many other yoga symbols and that includes the following: sun, rebirth, creation, beauty, prosperity, purity, divinity, and eternity. This list of associations is endless, and it is an incredibly important part of mythology, culture, religion and art in India and some other Asian countries, which are the areas in which yoga first actually originated.

You don’t understand all those yoga symbols, but you are getting a lot of benefit from the exercises. Now, your curiosity has got the better of you and you want to know the meaning behind these symbols. Knowing them will allow you to understand yoga and its history more deeply.

Types of Yoga Symbols:

The study of Yoga symbols is an ancient science created centuries ago to carry health, peace of mind, and happiness to people who have learned it. There is a wide collection of yoga symbols that are being used these days.

In ancient times, holy men called “rishis”, watched birds, animals, and other creatures, as well as plants, to develop asanas, movements, and postures. Asanas was the Sanskrit name for positions in yoga, and as new asanas were created, so were the forming of yoga symbols that resembled these creatures.

A lot of these asanas or positions in yoga were named after the plants and animals that they are similar to, these included:

Bakasana – this represents the crane posture.
Matsyasana – the fish posture.
Shalabhasna – the locust posture.
Simhasana – the loin posture.
Vatayasana – the horse posture.
Padmasana – the lotus posture.
Suryasana – the sun or the salute to the sun.

In the characteristics of the delicate body, complex symbolisms are used to describe the chakras. This is known as the energy of the whirling motions. These motions are symbolized as lotuses, with each chakra containing a certain number of petals, color, geometric shape, and presiding god.

Sanskrit letter are engraved on the petals of the lotuses, which symbolizes cosmic energy in the form of the exposed word. On the wall so yoga ashrams, are large paintings of the chakras with all their symbols. One of the most well known painting symbolized Hatha Yoga (ha, sun, tha, and moon). The pictured show the spine known as yogadanda, which symbolizes the staff of God, followed up by the kundalini which is the serpent power coiled at the based of the spine. Lastly, symbol of the sun and moon are also used for the major nadis. This channels the prana to flow to the upper and lowers parts of the body.
OM - A Powerful Symbol

A commonly used symbol to focus on while practicing Tratak is the OM symbol. To a yogi no symbol is more powerful than the syllable OM, as witnessed by these words from the Mandukya Upanishad: "OM: this eternal word is all; what was, what is and what shall be." In the Snaskrit letter the longer lower curve represents the dream state, the upper curve stands for the waking state and the curve issuing from the center symbolized deep dreamless sleep. The crescent shape stands for "Maya", the veil of illusion and the dot for the transcendental state. When the individual spirit in man passes through the veil and rests in the transcendental he is liberated from the three states and their qualities.

Om represents expansion or unfolding, wherein if uttered, starts within the lungs and ends with the lips. The Om is represented on glyph called omkar, and has four parts that each represents four states of awareness: the deep sleep state, the material state or ordinary waking, the dream state, and the awakened state or absolute conscience.

Summary:

Yoga is a very healing and spiritual practice. There are many spiritually significant symbols involved with the art of yoga. Many of these symbols represent the human being and its place within the flow of the universe. Throughout the ages, many of these symbols have come to find their way into mainstream society. The yoga symbols play a special part in yoga as they are the basis of static exercise that stimulates not merely physical fitness but energy harmonization as well.

Yoga Spa- A step for a complete body Wellness & Relaxation

Struggling to get your work-life balance right? Then a luxurious and soothing health spa retreat or a yoga holiday could be the answer. It’s all about you and you only. Relax with a retreat of your choice: yoga, bio therapy, and detox, just some of vast array of SPA YOGA holidays.

Relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul with a spa and yoga package. For ages, India has been known as the country where Yoga is considered a sort of characteristic of the human life cycle. India though taking impressive strides towards urbanization and industrialization, still considers the concept of Yoga & Meditation as very much a practice of the human life cycle. Enjoy a spa therapy which revitalize your skin and gives it a refreshing glow. Different Oil massages are done for relaxing the body and draining it of all worries & tension.

What is Yoga?

Yoga has become very popular due to its many recognized health benefits. Many doctors are recommending yoga to their patients to help reduce stress, increase their strength, flexibility and balance.

Yoga has been proven to help you:

1. Learn how to breath and relax


2. Manage your stress


3. Manage your weight


4. Boost your energy


5. Improve your cardiovascular endurance


6. Increase your muscular strength


7. Increase your flexibility


8. Increase your lung capacity


9. Improve your balance


10. Feel calm


11. Feel good!

No matter what your age or condition, practicing yoga will leave you feeling healthier and more centered within yourself and your world.

What is Spa?

Nowadays the term 'SPA' encompasses the philosophy of holistic therapy, to reach balance between the mind, body and soul; regaining or maintaining mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health. That's why modern spas now not only offer water treatments, but also include other treatments such as aromatherapy, body treatments, beauty care and pampering treatments, stress management, yoga and meditation. They also provide fitness options, nutrition and diet programs, and complementary therapies and so on.

Some of the proven benefits of Spa Therapy are:

1. Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation


2. Improves Circulation


3. Boosts the Immune System


4. Assists in the elimination of toxins


5. Helps your body heal


6. Helps bring Balance to the body


7. Feels really good!

Why Yoga Spa?

Yoga retreats, spa hotels and hotels with spas are becoming evermore popular, springing up all over the world. They are scattered all over the subcontinent - in the hills, on the beach, in cities and they vary in style, comfort and price.

You’ll likely want a getaway that combines quality yoga instruction with other activities like spa & massage therapies.

Like adventure travel, yoga and massage provide individuals an opportunity for personal transformation, not just of the body but of the mind and spirit. In the wilderness, one feels at peace and in harmony with nature. Each day is different, enlightening and exciting. As we do our yoga practice, we discover that our bodies and emotions are also changing daily. Taking the time to explore internally through yoga and meditation, we are able to integrate on a deeper level all the excitement, challenge, and exhilaration of the trip. Yoga and massage are an integral part of our adventure program. . Compliment your massage with a regular practice of Yoga, a healing art that not only provides your body with strength and flexibility, but gives you an overall feeling of peace and calm.

Exceptional pure massage oils, clays, muds, scrubs and seaweed products can be used for spa treatments. Indulge in a soothing massage from an on-staff massage therapist to loosen your muscles after an invigorating day of yoga programs, or any other of numerous adventures.

Summary:

At a health spa, working with a well-trained yoga instructor that understands all of these aspects and benefits of yoga is truly a journey towards wellness. The spa can offer so many opportunities to practise yoga in inspiring indoor and outdoor settings and when combined with other therapeutic advanced spa treatments, the whole experience is enhanced. Try a yoga spa mini-vacation at a yoga health spa. Health Spas and retreats lead the way in all basic and advanced yoga programmes, yoga practise and supervised detox programmes.

Yoga Shoes- Added Comfort for your foot!!!

While yoga has traditionally been practiced with bare feet, yoga shoes are a recent trend, making it possible to practice outside, or to hide your feet. Most yoga shoes are a more flexible version of regular athletic shoes, and come in all sizes, styles, and colors.
All the major sport shoe manufactures Nike, Adidas, Reebok etc have released a shoe called a yoga shoe. The design of the shoe has been inspired by yoga, and has been designed to be worn during yoga practice.

Why Yoga Shoes?

Most fitness activities like running, tennis or aerobics have shoes that are made to specifically support and protect our feet during these activities, while allowing our feet the flexibility and range of motion needed to perform. However, Yoga is one of the few fitness activities that are usually done bare feet. Some believe that our bare feet directly connect us to the Earth's energy. But a more practical reason for practicing Yoga barefoot is the free range of motion and flexibility.

If you practice yoga, you may have found that sweating hands and feet can cause you to slip on the mat, making it more difficult to keep your balance or accurately hold your poses. You may have remedied this by using sticky mats or anti-slip yoga socks during practice. But if you love shoes like I do, you may be excited to know that yoga has shoes too! Like other fitness shoes, these are made to give you the extra stability and the range of motion you want and need during yoga practice.

Yoga shoes provide the comfort that you need. Yoga shoes are different from the usual exercises shoes in that it has slim soles to provide suppleness and the top part of the shoes is lighter so as to ensure air circulation.

In addition yoga shoes are vital as bacteria and germs will not form and also when you need to share yoga mat. On the other hand it can avert injuries like stepping on jagged pebbles or ants bite. With the yoga shoes, it will help ensure that you do not slip when you are carrying out certain postures.

Yoga Slip-Ons by Gaiam for example, have an outer sole tough enough for the road and a removable insole which includes a quick drying sock lining for easy air drying. It's 100% recycled rubber toe and heal bumpers make these shoes friends with the environment and friends with your feet. Last, but not least...they look good. They come in cool contrasting color combinations like black and lavender or tan and coral.

Adidas also make a beautiful pair of orange yoga/tai chi shoes called the Mei Mesh W. The Mei features a soft inner cushion for comfort, an airy perforated upper to help keep feet cool and gum rubber outsole pads in heel and forefoot for maximum flexibility, and traction on the mat.

Tips for buying a good Yoga Shoe:

1. Yoga shoes are very important for a pain free existence. If Yoga shoes do not fit properly then you can have pain in your knees, back, ankles or hips. Comfortable Yoga shoes are more important then some people think. It is a good idea when you purchase Yoga shoes to try the Yoga shoes on and make sure they fit properly. It's very nice to have a good looking shoe but the fit is much more important. Buy Yoga shoes that fit your foot properly and you will feel better.

2. Yoga shoes should be breathable to your feet. Yoga shoes made of natural materials are better for you then plastic or man made materials are. Leather or cotton lets your feet breath while nylon or other synthetic are more air tight. Pick out natural materials when ever possible when buying Yoga shoes.

3. When you try a shoe on it should bend at the same spot your foot bends. When you walk it is important for your comfort that your Yoga shoes bend along with your foot. A shoe that does not bend with the foot can create blisters and sore spots.

Next time you buy some Yoga shoes take some time and make sure you get a shoe that fits your foot. The better your Yoga shoes fit the better you will feel and the more you can do.

Summary:

Thus nowadays practicing yoga with yoga shoes is quite trendy and also gives proper support and balance to the foot while practicing yoga. What else one need then!!! So from now before you begin your yoga classes just buy a comfortable pair of yoga shoes which are light weight and allow you to move freely.

Yoga Props- Key to Comfortable Asanas!!

Yoga also has its own small set of apparatus. Called yoga props, they help make the yoga poses more comfortable, create resistance or give the body something to lean on or bend over.

These props help you achieve the proper alignment, balance and make the pose a bit easier. The use of props also minimizes the strain and supports your muscles, thus allowing you to save your energy by exerting less effort on a pose.

Choosing quality props is the first step in deciding which props to use, as incorporating cheaply designed props into your yoga practice can do more harm than good. Remember, just like people, all props are not made the same.

Where Did All of These Props Come From?

In the 1960's a Yoga Guru named B.K.S. Iyengar noticed that many yoga students weren't achieving proper body alignment in each posture. This was not only due to poor training, but also to the physical limitations of each person's unique body. For instance, a person who has tight hamstrings may compensate for this by keeping the knees bent in many standing forward-bending postures. Or, a person who has bow legs may not be standing correctly in Corpse Pose, or may have trouble balancing due to the misalignment of their legs.

Iyengar believed that by adding certain props to postures, everyone can achieve the same benefits and goals of their yoga practice, regardless of any physical limitations he or she may have. After continuous use of props, Iyengar noticed that a person can even retrain his or her muscles to stay where they are supposed to be, thus curing any misalignments a student may have.

So How Do I Choose the Right Props?

Choosing quality props is the first step in deciding which props to use, as incorporating cheaply designed props into your yoga practice can do more harm than good. Remember, just like people, all props are not made the same. Below, you will find a helpful list of things you should look for when you are purchasing props for your yoga practice.

YOGA BLOCKS- Yoga Blocks come in a variety of different sizes and shapes, and are widely used to modify poses so that anyone with any flexibility level can correctly perform each posture to the best of his or her ability.

YOGA BOLSTERS- Yoga Bolsters are large, firm, pillow-like props that are most helpful to postures relating to meditation, rest, and also prenatal yoga postures. Think of it as a giant pillow.

YOGA STRAPS- Yoga Straps can be used in a variety of different ways in many different poses. The can act as a connection from one hand to another, or a foot to a hand when you are not flexible enough to reach without any help. Yoga straps can also be used to bind areas of the body together. For instance, if you have bow legs, certain postures may require you to stand with your legs together. This can be achieved by placing a Yoga Block in between the calves, and then binding the legs together with a yoga strap.

YOGA BLANKETS- Yoga Blankets, also known as Mexican Blankets, can be used in a number of ways in Yoga Practice. One of the most obvious is that it can be used as a blanket to keep you warm as you lie on the floor in Savasana, or Corpse Pose. Yoga Blankets can also be used in the same manner as Bolsters are used, as added support in postures.

YOGA WEDGES- Yoga Wedges, just like Yoga Blocks, are used to provide support to modify poses for every flexibility level. Unlike Blocks, Yoga Wedges are longer and have an angled top. Since they are longer than Blocks, they provide more of a sturdy base. However, the Wedge is not as tall as the Block, and requires a bit more flexibility than using a Block.

YOGA BALL- Also known as Swiss Balls, Physio Balls, Exercise Balls or PE Balls, the Yoga Ball is becoming very popular in Yoga Practice. Because they are large and strong enough to support your entire body weight, they can be used in many different standing forward and backward bending poses. The Yoga ball can also be used in various Pilate’s exercises as well.

YOGA SANDBAGS- Yoga Sandbags are very useful tools in any Yoga posture. While it is not a good idea to force yourself into a stretch, Yoga Sandbags allow you to gently fall deeper into any stretch, slowly improving your flexibility over time. Yoga Sandbags can also be used for extra support in postures, the same way Yoga Bolsters are used.

FOAM YOGA PAD - Foam Yoga Pads are versatile props that can be used in a variety of different Meditative poses as well as Yoga Postures. Foam Yoga Pads add extra cushioning between your body and the floor when sitting in Meditative poses, or you can even stand on them in balancing poses for an extra challenge. You can even stack Yoga Pads on top of each other to shorten the distance between your hands and the floor in poses that require flexibility.

Summary:

Using props in Yoga practice is one of the best things you can do for your body, both as a beginner student or advanced. As you probably already know, every day of your Yoga practice can bring new surprises, and some days you may feel more limber than others. On those "hard to stretch" days, it's a better idea to use a Yoga prop in your practice rather than to sacrifice your form and technique.

Yoga Retreat- A Perfect Yoga Vacation

Vacation full of Spirituality and Relaxation

Everyone occasionally feels a need for inner rejuvenation. Whether you want simply to reclaim your inner peace in the midst of a hectic life, or do some soul searching over your life directions, or go deeper into your spiritual life, going on retreat can be a perfect solution. A true retreat is much more than a vacation – it can be a time of conscious, spiritual opening, of making an enjoyable effort to rise to an entirely new state of awareness. In keeping with the spirit of yoga, yoga retreats often take place in beautiful and peaceful environs offering participants an even greater level of relaxation and focus. Experienced yoga instructors – or gurus – will lead the yoga retreat, giving special guidance to beginners who need additional support.

Why go to a Yoga retreat?

Well to answer that question, you need to ask yourself a few questions about what you hope to get out the yoga retreat?

* Would you like to deepen your yoga practice?
* Would you like the chance to give yourself more time to open, change, purify, and cleanse in a retreat environment than in a daily practice (limited by rushing between work and home)?
* Are you looking for a reclusive, intensive experience that will pull you away from outer stimulus?
* Places to unwind, have fun, and are as much a vacation as a chance to deepen your yoga practice?

If you are looking for any other of those opportunities, which is why going an on yoga retreat is wonderful. You'll get the opportunity to develop and deepen practice where your body has more time to open, change, purify, and cleanse in the retreat environment.

Find the Right Environment

Seek out a place that is harmonious with your goals. The right environment can give you a tremendous boost – while the wrong one can leave you feeling flat, or even work against you. So do your homework and ask some questions, because even similar-seeming places can have quite different emphases. Look also for a place that uplifts you with its beautiful natural surroundings, and with space to be alone whenever you wish it. If you’re new to retreating, go to a retreat center that offers personal guidance. Optional, guided group activities are also a plus.

Prepare Yourself

Eat right and get rested before you go on retreat; otherwise, you may need the first day or two of your retreat just to pull yourself together. If you already engage in spiritual practices, get a head start by putting extra energy into them before departing. You’ll be glad you did.

As soon as you leave home, put all problems forcefully out of your mind. Preoccupation with problems can suffocate your retreat, while a worry-free retreat can actually help you solve problems more effectively by getting you into “solution consciousness” rather than “problem consciousness.”

Plan Variety in Your Retreat

Who wants to go on a retreat that seems like boot camp? Let it be fun, and plan a variety of activities. For example, you might use the mornings for your most interiorized efforts: prayer, meditation, journal writing, or spiritual reading. Then be more expansive in the afternoons: walk in nature, do something creative, or listen to uplifting music or lecture tapes. Reserve your evenings for lighter fare; a spiritual video, a humorous book, or simply relaxed, quality time with like-minded people. And always allow for the inspiration of the moment; don’t be locked into anyone’s agenda – even your own.

Above All, Relax and Enjoy Yourself

Don’t put pressure on yourself to see immediate, dramatic results. When you go on retreat, you are planting a spiritual seed. If you water it by your own continuing spiritual efforts, in time it will surely sprout into the flower of peace and joy that you seek.

What is the difference between a yoga retreat and holiday/vacation?

There differences include, but are not restricted to:

* Yoga retreats - Internal focus: You'll find retreats are typically held in secluded peaceful environments. They are under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor. There is typically regular yoga practice each day, sometimes twice a day in the morning hatha yoga and evening more restorative poses or meditation. Attending a yoga retreats offers the opportunity for self discovery and reflection.

* Holiday/vacation - External focus: You'll find a vacation involves time away from work, normal routine can be fast pace, have a sense of focusing on the external rather than internal. A vacation can include heavy travel from one spot to another trying to see everything.

Summary:

Yoga retreats offer those who are committed to yoga a place of relaxed community and focused learning where they can practice yoga within a social setting. Yoga retreats can last any length of time; the only requirement is to have a passion for yoga. In addition to practicing yoga throughout your time on a yoga retreat, you will have the opportunity to intermingle with other enthusiasts from all walks of life. The result can be lifetime friendships formed through the shared dedication to this ancient form of exercise.

Yoga Postures- Revitalize Your Body with Few Easy Yoga Asanas!!!

The practice of Yoga Exercises means practicing both your body and your mind. It takes willpower and perseverance to accomplish each Yoga Pose and to practice it daily. But the prize for your perseverance is really worth all the hard work. The practice of Yoga Exercises or Asanas can improve your health, increase your resistance, and develop your mental awareness. Doing the Yoga Postures requires you to study each pose and execute it slowly as you control your body and your mind.

Few Easy Yoga Postures that anyone can do:

Here’re brief descriptions on some of the most important, popular and easier Yoga postures:

1. Sukhasana ~ the easy pose

Sit on a mat with legs spread out in front. Bend one leg and place the heel under the opposite thigh. Bend the other leg and place under opposite thigh and sit cross-legged with erect spine. Place hands on respective knees, palms downward, eyes closed, head poised and relax. Time: 5 - 30 minutes
Value: Composure of body and mind leading to inner harmony and the favourable position to follow the other exercises.

2. Talasana ~ the palm pose

Stand erect with feet together or apart. Keep hands parallel to the sides, chest forward, neck straight, abdomen and chin in. Slowly raise one arm to vertical position and simultaneously rise on the toes and inhale. Breathe in deep and stretch to the maximum. Gradually return to normal. Repeat with the other hand. Time: 10 secs for each round
Value: It aims at increasing a person's height as it aims at stretching the thorax and the lower abdomen by a combination of anterior, posterior, and lateral skeleton movements when one is growing up and even upto some years after one has reached maturity.

3. Konasana ~ the angle-pose

Stand with the feet fixed at 20-24 inches apart, hands at the side. While breathing in bend the upper part of the body sidewise above waist with the arm sliding below the knee while the other arm slides up to the armpit. The thorax, neck and head should be right angle with the base. Retain the breath and maintain the position for 4 seconds. Reverse to normal while exhaling. Repeat with the other arm. Time: 15 secs for each round
Value: It contributes to flexibility of the body and makes muscles pliable.

4. Utkatasana ~ semi-standing pose on tiptoe

Stand; keep the hands stretched parallel in front or at the sides with palms down, then squat. While squatting, slowly rise on tiptoe as you inhale. When breathe intake is complete squat again exhaling with thighs pressing against the respective calves. Taking in breath rise up on toes to standing position. Then slowly lower the heels to the floor. Rest for 4 secs, and then repeat. Time: 2 minutes for 10 rounds
Value: Flexes the muscles of the legs and the pelvis.

5. Chakrasana ~ the wheel pose

Stand with feet 20 inches apart. Raise the arms upwards keeping it close to the ears, fists tight, inhale and bend backwards with abdomen forward. Then interlace the fingers of the up-stretched arms above head forming an anterior arc. Pause for 6 seconds. With arms up-stretched and exhaling, bend forward to touch the ground. With the head almost touching the knees freely swing the arms straight upwards till they are vertical and parallel to the legs. Maintain position for 3 secs. Then reverse while taking in the breath. Time: 18-20 secs for each round
Value: Exercise of the spine and the mid-trunk.

6. Bhadrasana ~ the throne pose

Sit on the floor with legs stretched out in front. While maintaining the contact with the floor, draw both the legs nearer the body with the knees bent outward and the soles of the feet together. Inhale and bring the feet close to the genitals - touching the perineum, with the toes pointing outward. Palms outward, place the hand on respective knees placing them down. Hold the pose and then slowly return to normal while exhaling. Time: 15 secs for each round
Value: Exercises the pelvic organs, the groin, the unused thigh muscles and the sex organs.

Summary:

Everybody is encouraged to try and practice the Yoga Postures by you at home or in the office. However, if you are feeling uncomfortable or are not able to complete a posture, do not push yourself. Yoga Exercise is not a competition, so just relax and try again. Moreover, do not try Yoga Postures which are beyond your capabilities. It will be helpful to actually sign up for some Yoga Classes where a professional teacher will guide you through each Yoga Pose and make sure you are doing the exercise correctly.

What is Yoga?

What is Yoga?

In practice, yoga is an applied science of the mind and body. It comes from the Hindu Vedas (scriptures). Practice and study of it help to bring about a natural balance of body and mind in which the state of health can manifest itself. Yoga itself does not create health; rather, it creates an internal environment that allows the individual to come to his own state of dynamic balance, or health.

Basically, yoga teaches that a healthy person is a harmoniously integrated unit of body, mind and spirit. Therefore, good health requires a simple, natural diet, exercise in fresh air, a serene and untroubled mind and the awareness that main's deepest and highest self is identical with the spirit of God. As a result, to many devotees, yoga becomes a philosophy that offers instruction and insight into every aspect of life: the spiritual, the mental and the physical. Of course, because it is all-encompassing, people who want to pick and choose from its smorgasbord can do so without being disappointed. Yoga is equally satisfying as a physical therapy alone.

The Origin of Yoga

The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word "Yuj" meaning to yoke, join or unite. This implies joining or integrating all aspects of the individual - body with mind and mind with soul - to achieve a happy, balanced and useful life, and spiritually, uniting the individual with the supreme.

In India, Yoga is considered one of the six branches of classical philosophy and is referred to throughout the Vedas - ancient Indian scriptures and amongst the oldest texts in existence. The Upanishads are also broadly philosophical treatises which postdate the Vedas and deal with the nature of the "soul" and universe.

However, the origins of yoga are believed to be much older than that, stemming from the oral traditions of Yogis, where knowledge of Yoga was handed down from Guru (spiritual teacher) to Sisya (spiritual student) all the way back to the originators of Yoga, "the Rishis," who first began investigation into the nature of reality and man's inner world.

Legend has it that knowledge of Yoga was first passed by Lord Shiva to his wife Parvati and from there into the lives of men.

The Goal of Yoga

According to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the ultimate aim of Yoga is to reach "Kaivalya" (emancipation or ultimate freedom). This is the experience of one's innermost being or "soul" (the Purusa). Then one becomes free of chains of cause and effect (Karma) which tie us to continual reincarnation. In Kaivalya one is said to exist in peace and tranquillity, having attained absolute knowledge of the difference between the spiritual which is timeless, unchanging and free of sorrows, and the material which is not.

This is considered desirable as life is analyzed as ultimately full of sorrows and pain- even pleasure and joy leave pain and loss when they have gone as nothing in the material world is permanent.

Yoga is therefore a spiritual quest. However, along the path of yoga, the aspirant also gains health, happiness, tranquillity and knowledge which are indicators of progress and an encouragement to continue their practice. Buddhism and other Eastern spiritual traditions use many techniques derived from Yoga.

The Paths of Yoga

There are said to be 4 main paths (Margas), according to the Bhagavad Gita, by which to reach the ultimate goal of Yoga - "Kaivalya." There is the path of Knowledge (Jnana Marga) in which one learns to discriminate between what is real and what is illusory, the path of selfless work (Karma marga), the path of devotion (Bhakti Marga) and the path of control of the mind (Yoga Marga) where all the activities of the mind and consciousness are studied and brought under control.

From these have come the various paths of yoga which can be followed.

1. Raja yoga involves mastery of the mind and senses in Samadhi; essentially the advanced aspects of Patanjali's astanga yoga.


2. Hatha yoga is the yoga of the will which involves cultivating ones energy to arouse Kundalini primarily by means of asana and pranayama.


3. Mantra yoga involves reciting sacred syllables to reach perfection.


4. Laya yoga involves absorption in god to experience ultimate bliss.


5. Bhakti yoga requires absolute devotion to god to achieve the ultimate goal.


6. Karma yoga achieves this through selfless work without thought of personal reward.


7. Jnana yoga is the yoga of knowledge cultivating the discrimination between spiritual reality and the illusion of the material world.

Summary:

Yoga, thus symbolizes balance in every area of life. In the earlier times, the rationale of the Yoga postures and breathing exercises was to bring stability and relaxation so practitioners could prepare for the rigors of meditation, sitting still and alert for long periods of time. In modern context also Yoga can play an important role in maintaining a fine balance between work and healthy mind.

Hatha Yoga- Purify your Body And Mind!!!

Introduction to Hatha Yoga:

Hatha yoga is one of the most popular forms of yoga in the western world. It is the use of yoga postures or asana. Many people practice hatha yoga solely for its physical benefit. However, the aim of hatha yoga is meant to be to condition the body, so that the mind can be prepared for its spiritual path. It is thought that when the body is in good physical condition, then the mind is freer to concentrate on spiritual matters.

Yogi Swami Swatmarama introduced Hatha yoga. In Sanskrit 'ha' means sun or hot and 'tha' means moon or cold. Hatha yoga is the union of the opposite forces. This yoga is meant to prepare you for a higher yoga form. It consists of breathing techniques (pranayama), special postures (asanas), and meditation. It is believed that by balancing the positive and negative forces in our body, we can regulate our vital force (prana), clear our mind and experience subconscious states. It is the most physical of all the yoga forms practiced today.

Hatha yoga begins with a cleansing process, which tries to open up psychic (pranic) channels. Ancient yogis believed by mastering our breathing patterns, we can clear the way to mastering the mind. This is believed to bring the body into a disease Free State, since opening blocked channels will allow for a body and mind balancing state. They saw breathing as one of the most important functions of the body. Since prana is in the air, breathing correctly can provide us with good health.

Objective of Hatha Yoga:

Exercising postures or Asanas in Hatha Yoga has two essential objectives.

The first is that to practice any real meditation, one needs at the least one posture in which one can be perfectly comfortable for a longer period of time. The more such postures one can master, the better the basis for developing the inner meditation techniques.

The second objective of exercising asanas in Hatha Yoga is to bring health and energy to body and mind by opening the nadis. When such exercises are regularly performed, the path of hatha yoga is opened automatically, though one still has to follow it further.

The exercise of Pranayama in Hatha Yoga is essential to master ones' breathing patterns. If one can master breath, then the mastery of mind is within reach. Through breathing exercises the flow of prana or vital life force through the body is regulated. That energy is certainly needed on the further steps of Hatha Yoga that ultimately may lead to Samadhi. Special breathing techniques, in which the flow of breath though both nostrils is alternated, brings balance to the two hemispheres of the brain, which is probably the central objective of Pranayama. Pranayama in hatha yoga also activates the Kundalini Energy.

Benefits of Hatha Yoga:

The practice of Hatha Yoga can help you recognize your hidden physical and mental potentials. Through the continued performance of Asanas, you will gain flexibility and strength, and learn to be more relaxed under otherwise stressful situations. Hatha Yoga's Relaxation Exercises will open the energy channels, which in turn allows spiritual energy to flow freely. Some Hatha yoga poses also massage and tone your internal organs, helping to prevent diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and hypertension. They also bring balance to internal and glandular functions. Pranayama, on the other hand, can help manage asthma and bronchitis.

Hatha Yoga can also help you cope with stress, relieve tension, and deal with anxiety and depression. More importantly, it will help you put your mind in a focused state to prepare for Meditation and, eventually, the search for enlightenment.

Summary:

Hatha yoga is the physical part of Yoga practice. Hatha yoga lays emphasis on asanas, pranayama and dhyana (meditation). Another important facet of Yoga is that it aims at balancing different energy flows within the human body. Every movement in Yoga is planned and controlled as a result of that they prove revitalizing for both mind and body.

Hatha yoga is beneficial to the body both mentally and physically. It creates a balance in our physical and mental states. It reduces stress, rejuvenates us and improves circulation. By following the steps contained in Hatha yoga you can achieve a supreme state of spiritual happiness. You can reach the ultimate goal of yoga, which is a self-awareness and union with the self and the universe.

Yoga is Easy- Follow the Right Steps

Exercising the human body is essential. It keeps the body fit and the soul healthy too. Believe it or not exercising helps in keeping your mind stress free and also relaxes your brain muscles. And if the exercises are of therapeutic value like the ‘asana’ of the ancient old technique called –‘Yoga’, they can are known to have the ability to heal several chronic diseases too. Practicing yoga asanas keeps the body fit. It’s various postures, breathing techniques and meditation heals the body, mind and soul.

Benefits of Easy Yoga-

Research has shown that regular practice of yoga has helped in controlling severe problems like, anxiety, arthritis, blood pressure, diabetes, spondylitis, heart problems, stress, depression and several other diseases too.

Apart from being an easy exercise form, yoga is also about a disciplined lifestyle of which exercising is just a part. It acts as a connection between the body and the soul. It is a bridge that connects our busy life with the spiritual aspect of life and brings a balance in our daily routine.

Yoga is also known to improve the flexibility, strength and stamina of body muscles, boost self esteem, improve level of concentration, reduce body fat, improve blood circulation, and also teach a sense of well being to individuals who indulge in regular practices of the yoga asanas.

People who regularly practice yoga say that it is a tool that helps the body to evolve gradually by purifying the body, soul and mind; this is what gives yoga a therapeutic value.

Few Tips for practising Easy Yoga:-

Yoga postures and basic meditation exercises are simple enough to learn, even for a child. The major problem with most yoga 'drop outs' is not getting the techniques right, as most people have aligned their minds to believe, but the ability to establish the habit of following the practices through on a regular basis. The following tips may help you to do your yoga and meditation made easy.

* Determination: Start your yoga with a firm determination to see it through. Yoga begins and ends with the mind, if you can convince yourself you really want to do it, and then you should be able to keep the spirit.

* Be organized: Things go smoothly and are more interesting when they are well organized. Make a regular schedule for your yoga practice and stick to it. You will get best results from yoga if you do your practice daily.

* Free your Mind: When you decide to do your yoga practice and meditation, remember that the next couple of minutes have been reserved for the development of your mind and personality.

* Add Some Colour: Learning how to give and share is an important part of the personality yoga seeks to create in you. Add some colour and fun into your daily yoga practice by involving your friends who would also benefit from practicing yoga.

* Clothing: One should wear comfortable clothing to perform yoga. Comfortable and loose clothing will allow performing asanas easily. Stretchable fabric is pretty fine to wear while practicing yoga.

* Food: It’s recommended to practice yoga empty stomach. After having a meal, one should wait for at least 3 to4 hours before starting the yoga practice. It is recommended to perform yoga early in the morning.

* Time: The best suited time to perform yoga is either early when the daybreaks or late in the twilight. Morning is the time when one can perform yoga with fresh mind and stiff body. Whereas in the evening, mind is not that much fresh but by that time of the body becomes more open and flexible.

* Place: The place where one is going to start the yoga practice should be quite, warm and pleasant. It is better if one selects a location which is close to the nature. One performs breathing yoga practices in order to inhale clean and pure air. But if the air is polluted, there is no use of performing deep breathing. Practice yoga in pleasant atmosphere and in clean surrounding.

Precautions:

One should move carefully from one position to other. Often this is the time when muscle injuries can occur. Therefore, it is important to align the body properly while performing the asanas.

If one is suffering from any medical problem then one should concern the doctor or expert yoga instructor before beginning the yoga practice. A yoga instructor can guide give right advice that can effectively help one to get direct relief from the medical problem. It is recommended to avoid overstretching when it starts to pain in a particular position.

Summary:

Are you looking for a workout program that's easy to learn, requires little or no equipment, and soothes your soul while toning your body? If strengthening your cardiovascular system, toning and stretching your muscles, and improving your mental fitness are on your to-do list, that is none other then Yoga!!!