Unveiling the Ancient Practices: Body, Mind, and Spirit
Yoga, an ancient practices on the path to enlightenment, dates back to about 4000 years. Having its origin in India, it has now become exercise cum meditation for the new millennium. Yoga is becoming popular in all parts of the world. A form of solace for the restless mind, a boon for the sick, and a way to remain fit and smart for the common man, Yoga has modifying advantages and is, therefore, becoming a part of education. Specialists use it to unfold deeper layers of consciousness in their move toward perfection.
An ancient yoga practice was very little known in the West before the 1960s. It was perhaps known by a few icons like Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and others in the US. It was in the 1980s when great people like Swami Vivekananda spread the knowledge of Yoga, it started becoming popular as a physical system of health exercise among the Western population.
Patanjali Yoga, ancient yoga practice is one of the six systems of Indian philosophy known as Shat Darshanas. Patanjali Maharishi compiled the essential features and principles of Yoga in the form of Sutras. He says Yoga is a conscious process of gaining mastery over the mind. It can compress the process of man’s growth greatly. As Swami Vivekananda puts it, “It is a means of compressing one’s evolution into a single life or a few months or even a few hours of one’s bodily existence”. (read more… ‘Ancient manuscripts that talk about Yoga’)
In India, several classical texts and manuscripts talk about Yoga and its various components. Some of these ancient writings dated even earlier to Patanjali are Bhagavad Gita, Gheranda Samhita, Goraksha Samhita, Goraksha Shatakam, Goraksha Gita, Siva Samhita, Siva Swarodaya, Hatayoga Pradipika, Yoga Yajnavalkya Samhita, Brhadyoga Yajnavalkya Smriti, Yoga Rahasya, Yoga Ratnakara, and many others from the Vedas and the Upanishads.
The Indian scriptures are abounding with different terms for Yoga and many believe that they are different techniques but all of them lead to the same goal. The aim of Yoga is ‘Moksha’. Moksha here means liberation or freedom from suffering to reach a higher goal.
Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’ which means ‘to join’. Traditionally ‘Yuj’ is the joining of the ‘Jeevatma’ with ‘Paramatma’ – meaning individual self with that of the universal self. Yoga is an expansion of the narrow restricted egoistic personality to an all-pervasive, eternal, and blissful state of reality.
Yoga is an all-embracing way of life, a science of self-culture and mental discipline, that ensures the purgation of the ignoble in man and brings forth what is most noble in him. It is pertinent to all irrespective of caste, creed, sex, and religion. It can be beneficial to all – the good and the bad, the sick and the healthy, the believer and the non-believer, the literate and the ignorant, the young and the old. A person may begin at any age and can go on reaping its benefits.
“Yoga is difficult for the one whose mind is not subdued.” Bhagavad Gita
Yoga is not only one of the fastest-growing health practices in the world but also an essential part of spa menus across the world today. The basic aim of Yoga is to promote health and prevent diseases by experiencing union and a sense of oneness with the sell. The key to ancient yoga practice is proper breathing techniques. As we breathe fully, more oxygen intake is supplied to every cell and part of the body. This helps to maintain a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
The roots of ancient practices can be traced 5000 years back, when the ancient Hindu sages would practice Yoga to achieve enlightment. Though the origins of Yoga are as old as the Indus Valley civilization, what we practice today was derived from the translation of Sanskrit texts by Patanjali’, the Indian yogi who lived around 300 B.C. In Sanskrit, Yuja’ means to join or weld together. Just as two pieces of metal are welded together to become one, similarly, the philosophy of Yoga is to unite the consciousness (spirit) of the individual with the universal consciousness (spirit) through the regular practice of certain physical and mental exercises.
Thus, Yoga is the art of life that balances and harmonizes the body, mind, and emotions. To maintain this balance, the yogis devised an eight-fold path, also called Eight-limbed Yoga or Ashtanga Yoga. Patanjali’s writing became the basis for promoting inner strength and happiness. The Eight Limbs are Yama (The five ‘abstention’- non-violence, non-lying, non-covetousness, non-sensuality and non-possessiveness); Niyama (The five observances purity, contentment, austerity, study, and surrender to god); Asana (different seating positions used for meditation); Pranayama (control of the life force or breath); Pratyahara (withdrawal of the sense organs from external objects); Dharana (Concentration); Dhayana (Meditation); and Samadhi (the ultimate goal which merges consciousness with the object of meditation)
Scientists today ascertain that the intrinsic organic health of a human being is of prime importance along with the outer development of the body. The practice of Yoga has a substantial foundation in science. Yogic asanas accelerate blood circulation in the body and Pranayama abates carbon dioxide content ensuring sound health. Yoga provides all-round benefits to a human being.
To maintain the purity of blood and elimination of toxins, both outer and inner cleanliness is indispensable. Scientists prescribe sun-bath, steam-bath, shower-bath, and air-bath and to this, the Yogis include nasal cleansing (neti), stomach wash (dhouti), the depuration of the alimentary canal (basti), the purgation of the intestines, the bladder, and the sexual organs (vajroli).
Yoga, an ancient practices of exercise have a strengthening effect on the nervous system through its non-tiring physiological activities that bring about the poise of body and mind. Unlike normal workouts that concentrate more on the inflation of the muscles, Yoga takes care of every little part of the anatomy.
Yoga and meditation are a unique gift to mankind. They strengthen your body and mind providing physical power and mental peace. It helps fight diseases to provide one with a longer and healthier form of life.
Wellness Garden is your committed partner in seeking comprehensive natural and holistic therapies to address all your pain and wellness requirements. Our approach encompasses the entirety of your body, mind, and environment, integrating body, mind, and nutrition therapy and various other techniques.
Whether facing physical or mental health concerns, life hurdles, or simply aiming to enhance your overall well-being, we’re here to provide the support you need. Get in touch with us to explore the possibilities and embark on your journey towards holistic therapy and improved health.
“Yoga is difficult for the one whose mind is not subdued.” Bhagavad Gita
Yoga, an ancient practices is not only one of the fastest-growing health practices in the world but also an essential part of spa menus across the world today. The basic aim of Yoga is to promote health and prevent diseases by experiencing union and a sense of oneness with the sell. The key to Yoga is proper breathing techniques. As we breathe fully, more oxygen intake is supplied to every cell and part of the body. This helps to maintain a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
The roots of Yoga, an ancient practices can be traced 5000 years back, when the ancient Hindu sages would practice Yoga to achieve enlightenment. Though the origins of Yoga, and ancient practices are as old as the Indus Valley civilization, what we practice today was derived from the translation of Sanskrit texts by Patanjali, the Indian yogi who lived around 300 B.C. In Sanskrit, Yuja’ means to join or weld together. Just as two pieces of metal are welded together to become one, similarly, the philosophy of Yoga is to unite the consciousness (spirit) of the individual with the universal consciousness (spirit) through the regular practice of certain physical and mental exercises. Thus, Yoga is the art of life that balances and harmonizes the body, mind, and emotions. To maintain this balance, the yogis devised an eight-fold path, also called Eight-limbed Yoga or Ashtanga Yoga. Patanjali’s writing became the basis for promoting inner strength and happiness. The Eight Limbs are Yama (The five ‘abstention’- non-violence, non-lying, non-covetousness, non-sensuality and non-possessiveness); Niyama (The five observances purity, contentment, austerity, study, and surrender to god); Asana (different seating positions used for meditation); Pranayama (control of the life force or breath); Pratyahara (withdrawal of the sense organs from external objects); Dharana (Concentration); Dhyana (Meditation); and Samadhi (the ultimate goal which merges consciousness with the object of meditation)
ASANAS
Asana means body posture. Yoga, ancient practices offers a wide choice of asanas to choose from, depending on the overall stamina and health. This could be from mild pranayams to high-intensity asanas involving higher physical movement. Traditionally practiced in Hatha Yoga, asanas have a deep impact on the entire body and mind as they affect different body systems such as muscular, respiratory, circulation, digestive, excretory, and others. While some asanas are in a standing position, some are in a sitting position while others are in a supine position, also called a lying down position. Yoga postures that are widely practiced include Bhujangasana, Sarvasana, Setubandhasana, Sukhasana, Tadasana, Trikonasana, Virabhadrasana, and many others.
Yoga, an ancient practices is highly therapeutic. It is a powerful anti-aging tool and can treat allergies, anemia, arthritis, asthmatic problems, back pain, bronchitis, cancer, chronic fatigue, depression, diabetes, eye problems, face wrinkles, gastro-intestinal high blood pressure, hypertension, immunity deficiency, impotence, menstrual cramps, migraines, and many other conditions. As one practices Yoga, blood circulation improves which results in healthy and glowing skin besides infusing a sense of balance and internal harmony.
Yoga is considered as the essence of a healthy life. Practicing Yoga regularly not only ensures a healthy lifestyle but also attains the much-desired peace of mind. It is the greatest stress-buster and a remedy for curing several chronic ailments. Yoga is broadly divided into eight types. Most of them involve the use of poses (Asanas), meditation, and breathing exercises (Pranayams). In this section, we have discussed the eight prominent types of Yoga, their technique, and their health benefits.
BHAKTI YOGA
As the name suggests, Bhakti Yoga is practiced expressing love and devotion to the Almighty by singing bhajans, chanting slogans, reading religious books, reciting prayers, and doing religious activities that bring one closer to god and thus help in attaining oneness with the
HATHA YOGA
Considered as one of the most popular branches of Yoga. Hatha Yoga involves physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayams), meditation, mudras, and purification procedures known as ‘Shatkriyas’. Regular practice leads to a more disciplined and focused mind.
JNANA YOGA
By practicing Jnana, an ancient practices of yoga the individual stays focused in all situations and attains self-control. This Yoga of true knowledge aims to detach the person performing it from all the temporary aspects of life.
KARMA YOGA
Karma Yoga is the dedication of all actions (karma) and their results to the Almighty. A Karma Yogic aims to provide selfless service to the poor, needy, and downtrodden section of society without expecting anything in return. It purifies one’s heart and helps attain the knowledge of one’s self.
KUNDALINI YOGA
Kundalini means the vital force at the base of the spine. The yoga aims at awakening and tapping the energy in the lower body, particularly at the base of the spine, and drawing it to move upwards to the head. Apart from the physical postures (asanas), the person performs meditation and chants mantras to awaken each of the seven chakras of the body. The asanas are coordinated with the hold of breath.
MANTRA YOGA
In this, the individual chants mantras to attain peace of mind and enhance concentration power. The purpose of chanting mantras is to achieve certain goals or desires. Mantra Yoga helps to eliminate several disorders, including psychosomatic ailments and the problems of anxiety, stress, and tension. It also boosts the individual’s self-confidence.
PURNA YOGA
Known as integral Yoga, Purna Yoga offers wisdom and techniques for the unison of the body, mind, and soul. It involves meditation, pranayama, and alignment-based asanas. Purna Yoga is an improvisation of the traditional systems of Yoga.
RAJ YOGA
Raj Yoga is considered to be the best for complete and holistic healing of one’s mind and soul. It helps the individual to alleviate himself from emotional and mental conflicts, thus bringing him in harmony with the co-existing creatures and environment.
POWER YOGA
This yoga is practiced widely these days as it is like an intense aerobic workout. It is challenging and physically demanding because of the constant movement from one pose to the next with synchronized breathing. This intense, vigorous, and fast-paced Yoga consists of a progressive series of poses like push-ups, handstands, side bends, and toe touches.
BIKRAM/HOT YOGA
While doing the Bikram Yoga, the practice room is heated up to 37 degrees Celsius with a humidity level of 40 percent, which results in profuse sweating and loosening of tight muscles. Today, even in spas, it has become one of the most practiced Yoga forms due to its capability of cleansing the body of toxins, making one healthier and feeling rejuvenated.
VINYASA YOGA
Vinyasa means breath-synchronised movement. This is a vigorous practice that starts typically with a series of movements matching with the breath called Sun Salutations to warm up the body. The practice balances a cach pose with a counter pose. In the advanced stages of this Yoga, stretching is made more intense.
IYENGAR YOGA
This yoga emphasizes more on holding each pose for a longer time rather than moving from one pose to the next. Props such as blocks, blankets, and straps are used to help align the body into different poses in a sequential way. This yoga is also suitable for people with disabilities or injuries as it improves their flexibility and strength.
YOGA IN SPAS
Yoga has become an indispensable part of spas today. Yoga retreats at spas are popular for their benefits. Yoga sessions are a part of most of the spa menus which include detoxifying and de-stressing therapies followed by a serving of fresh organic food. Considering the highly therapeutic value of Yoga, spas employ highly qualified Yoga instructors to offer a complete wellness paradise to their guests. Yoga platforms are being added to spa suites so that the guests can learn and practice Yoga as it is a proven method to cope with the stress and strain of daily life.
MEDITATION
Meditation is considered to be the highest form of Yoga in which one can experience breath, mind, and body becoming one. It is an inward pilgrimage, where one searches, with every breath inhaled, the mysteries of life, including one’s destiny. Meditation is practiced by sitting on the floor in a cross-legged posture with or without locking both legs, followed by closed eyes. This art of spiritual healing takes several forms: insight, sitting, mindfulness, and moving. Regardless of the technique, each is intended to deeply relax the body and the mind. Every time one meditates, anxiety, worries, and stress are all reduced while enhancing peace, calmness, and tranquility within the inner self. In the corporate world, mediation has become a must to bust stress and increase productivity.
In traditional meditation, one focuses on the area of the face between the eyebrows with or without chanting Mantras’, while in Mindfulness meditation, the meditator focuses attention on processes passing through the mind. It is considered an outgrowth of a Buddhist tradition called Vipassana which focuses on the present moment. Another form of meditation is Concentration meditation in which the individual concentrates his attention on an internal or external object (for example sound, word, bodily sensations, etc.) while minimizing distractions and bringing the attention of the wandering mind back to the chosen object. Some other forms of meditation involve focusing on objects.
For example, in Mandala meditation, one has to gaze upon the mandala, a universal symbol (basically a yantra which is a cosmically inspired geometric design). This practice draws one to greater realizations of esoteric qualities like beauty, truth, peace, and joy within. Another popular meditation form is the Kundalini meditation which arouses kundalini to release free flow of energy to sustain and maintain every cell.
Yet another meditation form is Preksha meditation. The secret of this meditation is to observe the breath without consciously trying to change it. It can also be practiced while sitting, standing, or walking depending upon the ease of posture selected for practice. Active meditation can be practiced in any posture. It believes that anything that you do and give your full attention to can be a form of meditation. It is especially good for people with a distracted mind as an active form of meditation will probably be easier for beginners. One of the most common forms of active meditation is walking meditation. You can do a walking meditation anywhere. Keep your attention on the steps you are taking. Another interesting form of meditation is writing which involves recording of thoughts without editing, filtering, or judging. It is believed that regular meditation produces an increased number of antibodies and improves brain function as well.
Continue to the Table of Content to read Hatha Yoga in detail
What is Hatha Yoga
Health, physical fitness, and emotional stability are the objectives that bring yoga and physical education on a common platform for the benefit of humans. The utility of a particular exercise program can be evaluated only in the form of the effects that one obtained in promoting a particular factor of physical fitness. Through constant practice of yoga, one can overcome all difficulties, can eradicate all weaknesses, pain can be transmitted into bliss, sorrow into joys, failure into success, and sickness into perfect health. Determination, patience, and persistence lead one to their goal.
Health and Physical Fitness
Health is a more general and comprehensive term conveying the ‘feeling of well-being’, while physical fitness is a more specific term. Physical fitness is the capacity of an individual to perform a given task at a particular time. Health and physical fitness are not static. They are always changing; they follow the law that can be maintained only by carefully selected physical activities called ‘exercise’. Yoga has both preventive and therapeutic benefits. It has been shown to offer both physical and mental benefits to the body and the mind.
Benefits of Hatha Yoga
Physical benefits of Hatha Yoga are:
Mental benefits of Hatha Yoga include:
Modern doctors and scientists are discovering additional health benefits of Hatha Yoga. Studies have shown that it can relieve the symptoms of several common and potentially life-threatening illnesses; such as arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, diabetes, AIDS, asthma, and obesity. Many believe it even fends off the ravages of old age.
Continue to the Table of Content to read about Ashtanga yoga in detail
About Ashtanga Yoga
There are eight components of Ashtanga Yoga (‘Ashta’ meaning eight and ‘Anga’ means component), namely Yamas, Niyamas, Asanas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi.
The path of yoga chosen may be different, but there are only two instruments that are needed. They are the body and mind. The body is Bahiranga: external and the mind is Antaranga: internal. These two help the body to become strong, stable, and healthy, and the mind to be free from agitations and remain peaceful.
The first four components mentioned in Ashtanga Yoga are Bahiranga Yoga, and the last four components are Antaranga Yoga.
A Word From WG
Wellness Garden is your committed partner in seeking comprehensive natural and holistic therapies to address all your pain and wellness requirements. Our approach encompasses the entirety of your body, mind, and environment, integrating body, mind, and nutrition therapy and various other techniques.
Whether facing physical or mental health concerns, life hurdles, or simply aiming to enhance your overall well-being, we’re here to provide the support you need. Get in touch with us to explore the possibilities and embark on your journey towards holistic therapy and improved health.
Take the next step in your wellness journey. Discover how our curated non-allopathic therapies can complement newfound knowledge at www.program.wellnessgarden.in or reach out for personalized guidance to our team at info@wellnessgarden.in.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with healthcare practitioners before undertaking any changes in wellness routines or adding new therapies.
