|
The Philosophy and Significance of Yoga |
Yoga is a discipline aimed at ensuring physical and mental well-being of the practitioner. However, it is based on principles and guidelines that must be followed properly. If the guidelines are not followed and adequate precautions are not taken then the practitioner may not benefit or may suffer from injury. It is important that if you want to practice yoga, you should do so only under competent guidance.
When you are performing yoga, you should realize that it is very important to perform the poses in the recommended manner. Yoga postures are known as asanas. There are scores of asanas depicted in the yoga guidebooks. You will find that each of the asanas or postures is aimed at curing a specific ailment of the body. The asanas are very effective in enhancing the strength of your mind and body. However, you should know that yoga properly works only when done in the proper manner.
Asana literally means seat. The word is derived from the old practice of seating in a certain stance for meditation. The main significance of the yoga postures lies in the fact that they open up the energy channels of your body and take you to a higher level where you experience perfect harmony with nature. Asanas remove toxins from your body and strengthen your constitution. Yoga postures, if applied properly, can also enhance mental ability and focus.
The important thing to keep in mind is that you must try to regulate breathing while performing yoga. If your breathing is irregular and forced, it may show negative results in the long run. Another thing is that you should not overstretch yourself. You have to know and apply the basic rules in order to benefit from the practice. You have to remember when performing yoga that you are not taking part in any struggle for one-upmanship.
Yoga is aimed at bringing improving your overall physical constitution, personality and aura. It is not about glorification of the self. You should never hurry things and should always take your own time. And if you are a rank newcomer in the domain of yoga, it is advisable to perform under the tutelage of an able and experienced instructor or guru. |
