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Yoga has traditionally been used to develop a relationship with the Divine. And, of course, that relationship is fundamental to our very existence. However, we find the Divine by developing first our relationship with ourselves (the Divine within each of us), and by clearing our body and our lives of the things that get in the way of knowing and expressing that. We won't find the Divine in any 'gurus', or anything that asks us to place our power outside of ourselves.
Yoga asanas are excellent for centering ourselves, clearing blockages and
stiffness within the body, and many other things.
For that alone, they are worth doing.
In yoga, the breath is joined with the movement of each posture. And every movement is led by the breath. The breath is also a long subject in yoga, and there are articles on various aspects of it on this site. If you are new to yoga, or new to this aspect of yoga, its a good idea to read through these as it is integral to the practice of the asanas.
Points to remember
- There is no specific time for doing yoga. In the point of view of convenience, morning is always better as you will be free for the rest of the day.
- Whatever time you have chosen, stick to the same time of practice every day.
- Practice yoga regularly and continuously. Irregular practice will not bring good results.
- Practice only once within twenty four hours.
- Practice at least 15 minutes a day, for 5 days a week. 15 minutes can be gradually increased to a maximum of 1 hour.
- The place of yoga practice should be neat, clean and airy.
- Try to practice at the same place regularly.
- Yoga should be practiced on an empty stomach.
- If you have taken food, wait for two or more hours before practicing.
- Relax in between asanas for 6 to 8 seconds. Take 2 or 3 normal breaths between asanas.
- Rest at the end of the asana session. The general principle is to rest 1/4th of the time of actual practice. For example if you practice asanas for 30 minutes, your rest time is 71/2 minutes.
- Wear clean and light cloth while practicing.
- Avoid excessive intake of coffee, tea, alcohol and drugs.
- Try to keep the mind free from anxiety, worries and any strenuous involvement while you are practicing.
Some Benefits of Yoga
According to medical scientists, yoga therapy is successful because of the balance created in the nervous and endocrine systems which directly influences all the other systems and organs of the body. Yoga acts both as a curative and preventive therapy. The very essence of yoga lies in attaining mental peace, improved concentration powers, a relaxed state of living and harmony in relationships.
The most important benefit of yoga is physical and mental therapy. The aging process, which is largely an artificial condition, caused mainly by autointoxication or self-poisoning, can be slowed down by practicing yoga. By keeping the body clean, flexible and well lubricated, we can significantly reduce the catabolic process of cell deterioration.
Regular practice of asanas, pranayama and meditation can help such diverse
ailments such as diabetes, blood pressure, digestive disorders, arthritis,
arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, asthma, varicose veins and heart conditions.
Laboratory tests have proved the yogi's increased abilities of consciously controlling
autonomic or involuntary functions, such as temperature, heartbeat and blood pressure.
Research into the effects of yogic practices on HIV is currently underway with
promising results.
Increse Self-Awareness
Increase Mental Performance
Increasing lubrication of the joints, ligaments and tendons
Increase Flexibility
Massaging of ALL Organs of the Body
Excellent toning of the muscles
Improving asthma
Control Respiration Problems
Plays major role to play in the treatment and prevention of high blood pressure
Prevent back pain by enhancing strength and flexibility
Regular yoga practice can help in weight management
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