Yoga...
"The pose begins when you want to leave it."
Origins
Many people in the West mistakenly believe yoga to be a religion, but its teachers point out that it is a system of living designed to promote health, peace of mind, and deeper awareness of ourselves.
Yoga was developed in ancient India as far back as 5,000 years ago. Yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning "to yoke" or "union." The goal of classical yoga is to bring self-transcendence, or enlightenment (union) through physical, mental and spiritual practices.
Yoga was developed in ancient India as far back as 5,000 years ago. Yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning "to yoke" or "union." The goal of classical yoga is to bring self-transcendence, or enlightenment (union) through physical, mental and spiritual practices.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is the most widely practiced form of yoga in America. The word hatha comes from the Sanskrit terms 'ha' meaning sun and 'tha' meaning moon. Hatha yoga uses bodily postures (asanas), moving energy through breath control (pranayama), and meditation (dhyana) with the goal of bringing about a sound, healthy body and a clear, peaceful mind.
Om Mani Padme Hum
"The Jewel is in the Lotus."
The altruistic intention to become enlightened, compassionate and loving.
In dependence on the practice which is in indivisible union of method and wisdom, you can transform your impure body, speech and mind into pure body, speech, and mind. It is said that you should not seek outside of yourself; the substances for the achievement of Enlightenment (union) are within. |
My Practice
I came back to yoga in 2012. At first, just as an asana practice. Six months later, going through teacher training, I became fascinated with the history and philosophy of this ancient art. I continue my asana practice and my in-depth studies today...
In the context of the ancient Vedic culture of India, the knowledge that takes one forward and liberates one from the limited experience of body consciousness, is known as the higher knowledge or the greater knowledge, Para Vidya.
Because, Para Vidya or the science of Yoga is a practical science it is to be applied in living your life. It is not only for knowing, but also for doing. It is not simply for acquiring information, but for putting that information to use by translating it into action, into practice.
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"The Four Agreements" was required reading in yoga teacher training. I share this with you because I have personally found these habits / intentions to be profoundly liberating. I encourage everyone to read it. Here is a short synopsis:
"In The Four Agreements, don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting agreements that rob people of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the Four Agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform anyone’s life to a new experience of freedom, true happiness and love. These agreements are deceptively simple: Be impeccable with your word (speak with integrity; say only what you mean); Don’t take anything personally (nothing others do is because of you); Don’t make assumptions (find the courage to ask questions and express what you really want); Always do your best (and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret)."
