Mind Body Connection: Yoga Shows The Way
Yoga, derived from the root Yujir Yogey, meaning to yoke, to join, to unite refers to a seeker after this union as a yogi or yogin and Yoga is the science and practice of attaining liberation (nirvana or moksha) from the materialistic world. It not only points the way to release but offers a practical means of arriving there. So, essentially, Yoga is the union of the Individual soul (Jivatma) with the Supreme Soul (Paramatma). A practical path to self-realization, Yoga is, therefore, considered the pathway to enlightenment through purification of the entire being. It is done in such a way that the body and mind are able to experience the Absolute reality underlying the illusions (Maya) of everyday life.
Yoga though famous for its postures and poses actually works with the inner being to bring about holistic wellness, the various dimensions of our very being affecting our daily lives and daily decisions. Stemming from the seed of childhood and expanding branches to develop our physical, mental, emotional, social, financial, occupational and intellectual selves. Yoga, Health and Wellness coaching, motivation, goals, purpose and contentment all become essential fuels to nourish and enable these branches to grow.
It is only when you start practising yoga do you feel liberated from the world and enter a meditative state and that is when you consciously feel connected to self and can reflect on how your relationships and your reactions to situations change. It is then that you view yoga beyond the desire to just be body beautiful.
Apart from the philosophical and psychological benefits, yoga helps in supplying oxygen-rich blood to various parts of the body while getting rid of internal fears. Yoga postures massage internal organs and certain asanas can decrease blood pressure, bring the thyroid in balance, improve digestion and get riddance of several other health issues. It slows down respiration and the heartbeat, therefore making the respiratory and the circulatory system strong.
Practising Yoga regularly will lead to increased memory, improved concentration and improved sensory faculties (eyesight, hearing). It will help you relieve mental sluggishness and lethargy. You will experience inner independence, deeper self-control and will be able to cure insomnia and depression.
Inculcate the art form in your daily living and self-heal. Harmonize the body, prana, mind and soul. Happy yoga Day!
