What is Yoga?

Yoga

Yoga, in Sanskrit, means ‘union’. Traditionally yoga is a method of practice that aims to join or unite the individual with the higher universal existence, culminating in an ongoing state of peace, inner power and spiritual wisdom. It means you begin to experience the universality of who you are. 

Yoga is a science of developed in India thousands of years ago to help with physical, mental and spiritual health. For generations, masters, have passed on this sacred thread of knowledge without a single distortion.  

Traditional  Hatha and Ashtanga Yoga Principles

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The word “Hatha” is derived from the Sanskrit term “ha” meaning “sun” and “tha” meaning moon. This refers to masculine energy which is active, hot - sun and feminine energy is receptive, cool – moon with is us. Practice of hatha yoga brings balance and unites these opposite energies within your body. There is ancient print that includes four steps for practicing hatha yoga:

• Six shatkarmas (physical and mental detox)
• Asanas (physical postures)
• Mudras and Bandhas (energy release techniques)
• Pranayama (breathing technic)

Ashtanga, in Sanskrit, means “eight limbs or components”. Ashtanga yoga is a practice of eight limbs (paths) in order to experience the true practice of yoga:

• Yama – social restraints, ethical values
• Niyama- personal observance of purity, tolerance
• Asana-physical exercises
• Pranayama-breath control
• Pratyahara-preparation for meditation
• Dharana- concertation
• Dhyana- meditation
• Samadhi- transcendence