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The Philosophy of Yoga |
What is yoga? There is no one definition that can fully encompass the essence of yoga. Some may say it is a form of exercise, some may say it is a way to relax, while others may say it is a way of life. All of these beliefs about yoga are correct. In essence, yoga practice aims to align the body with the mind through fluid movement and controlled breathing. Yet, there is more to the ancient art of yoga than this. At the base of the yoga practice are five basic principles: proper exercise, breathing, relaxation, diet, and meditation.
Exercise |
The body is the physical manifestation of a being; it is the shell that expresses and represents one’s self. One’s spiritual health begins with physical health, which is physical achieved through proper exercise. The yoga practice has beneficial effects to every part of the body – muscles, joints, ligaments, blood circulation, internal organs,digestion, etc. Yoga incorporates various poses, or asanas, into fluid movements. One matches their breath with movement, causing a heightened awareness of the body.
Diet |
We are what we eat. A proper diet to accompany the yoga practice helps to maintain a healthy physical body. In order to detox one’s body, yoga recommends a vegetarian diet. Digesting meat requires more energy than a vegetarian diet; this energy is needed for rejuvenating the body through meditation and mental clarity.
Breathing |
Central to a yoga lifestyle is proper breathing. Most people become shallow chest breathers by the age of 8, which doesn’t utilize the full capacity of the lungs. Yoga emphasizes attention to breath, and taking long, deep inhalations that begin in the lower abdomen and fill up the entire chest cavity. This increases lung capacity and oxygen flow throughout the body, which clears and cleanses the mind. One achieves unity of the body and mind through proper breathing.
Relaxation |
One achieves inner peace and spiritual cleansing through proper relaxation. Relaxation begins in the physical body, manifested through losing all tension within the muscles. This then extends to the mind, and positively affects one’s actions throughout the day. One is able to cope with the hustle and bustle of the world when serenity is reached within.
Meditation |
The final but most important aspect of the yoga philosophy is positive thinking and meditation. It is part of the yoga belief that everything in the physical body is controlled through the mind. If one can control their mind, then one has control of their body and health. Meditation allows one a way to ease the constant chatter of the mind, and instead control it, and channel it to positive thinking and spiritual health.
The word Yoga means union – Union of the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual body.
To be in good health it is important to have all these aspects balanced, including our body energies.
By practicing Yoga, it brings our awareness into the present moment. When we are focused on the present moment we let go of the past, let go of the future and become only present and aware of the moment.
-Yoga retreats, workshops and classes provide an atmosphere and environment that is ideal to learn and practice the asanas, relaxation,meditation, positive thinking and proper breathing techniques.
Through my traditional Hatha Yoga classes, my intention is to give every body the possibility to incorporate yoga awareness into their everyday life
By simply taking a small amount of time daily to have a peaceful moment with yourself. You can help rebalance the physical body & energetic systems, calm the mind, harmonize emotions and nourish the spirit.
I look foward to meeting you.
NAMASTE
Michelle. click for more info Yoga Alliance International Europe Registration
www.yoga-michelle.com