What is Yoga?
by Joyce d’Souza
Yoga is a word that is so commonly used today. People the world over say they practice Yoga. But, in reality, what most of them actually do is practice Asanas - the physical part of Yoga. There’s much more to Yoga that just Asanas. Asanas, as you will learn later, is only fourth in line in the eight-fold path of Yoga.
How many of us know the true meaning of Yoga, the origin of Yoga, the reason why it is so widely acknowledged, and why the practice of Yoga is so important in our lives . . .
The history of Yoga dates back to much before 3,000 BC. Archaeologists found a portrait on a stone seal of a human-like figure meditating in what looked like a Yoga posture, in the ancient Indian twin cities of Mehenjo Daro and Harappa existent during the Indus Valley Civilisation - the period between 3000 BC and 5000 BC.
Let’s look at the meaning of Yoga. Is Yoga a Religion? Is Yoga an Art? Is Yoga a Science?
Yoga, which is pronounced as YOG is derived from the Sanskrit word YUJ, which literally means Union - “a union of body, mind and spirit or soul”. It is when these three main components of our lives work in harmony with each other, it is said - we are ‘living’ at our best; this is Yoga.
Yoga is not a religion. It has no dogmas, no rituals to adhere to, and no obligations that need to be followed. Yoga is simply a culture of consciousness that gives you the freedom to follow the dictates of your inner self, and strengthens and shows you the path to reach the God of your belief, as you go along; and hence can be practiced by people of all religions.
Yoga is a way of life and can be termed both a science and an art. A science . . . because its elements of practice based on ancient Indian culture are tried, tested, researched, practiced, and proven for thousand of years first in ancient India and now the world over, as the best method for any individual to keep fit mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Yoga is an art - an art of living a healthy, balanced, peaceful and contented life. It is termed ‘holistic’ which means a ‘whole’ and total integrated system. It studies man in its wholeness and entirety - body, mind and spirit; and is woven to certain principles, values, attitudes and a way of life.
The tradition of Yoga is an ancient education system that was born in India several thousand years ago and perfected through trial and error by the Rishis, the Maharishis, Sages and Yogis of India. They recognized that life had its limits and brought with it inevitable pain and suffering. They were moved by the suffering they saw around them. Through observation, rational interpretations of their personal experiences and through meditation and deep concentration, they were able to study and evolve a practical, scientifically prepared method to handle the problems of everyday living for inner tranquility.
Yoga could be termed a philosophy of life . . . a life of self-discipline. It helps a person understand his mind, his personality, his purpose in life for which he is created. It provides a calmer state of mind, reconditioning techniques, thus contributing mentally and physically to one’s whole well being. Modern technology provides us with leisure, comfort and an easier material existence; but it takes away inner peace of mind. Regular practice of Yoga balances, harmonizes, purifies and strengthens the body, mind and soul. It shows the way to perfect physical health, an absolute control of mind and peace within one self, the world, the nature and one’s relation with God. It needs strong determination, continued practice and an ongoing effort and desire to look within oneself . . . for reaching a yogic life is an uphill task and no mean feat.
Sanskrit : the language of the learned in ancient India
Rishis, Maharishis and Yogis : The learned and holy men of ancient India, who lived in the forests in deep meditation
Joyce d’Souza is a regular contributor of Yogic Arcles to Six Senses Yoga Society. She is a trained instructor of Yoga, and a Yoga Therapist having studied Yoga at the Gurukul and at University level. Joyce lives in India.
© 2007 Six Senses Yoga Society