Maharishi Patanjali and the Yoga Sutras

Statue of Maharishi Patanjali at Patanjali Yogpeeth, Haridwar, India 

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

Maharishi Patanjali was a great scholar, ascetic and intellect of ancient India who is believed to have existed in the time period of 4^th to 2^nd century BC. In the Indian tradition, Maharishi Patanjali is regarded as “Svayambhu” (self-born). He is considered as a highly evolved soul, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu who incarnated of his own will in a human form to help humanity.

Very little historical information is now available about him. Still he is still revered and credited for compiling the art of Yoga. Patanjali gathered all the bits and pieces related to Yoga and complied them into what is known as the Yoga Sutra in Sanskrit along with his commentaries in a text which is now known as “Patanjalayogasastra”. He was the first divine being who realized the potential of Yoga and the power it could unleash if practiced properly, so in a way the onus of enlightening the world goes to this great sage, little did he knew that many years down the lane his compilation will have this huge impact on the humans, it will be a boon to mankind.

Patanjali realized that it was getting too diversified and complex for anyone to understand the science of Yoga in any meaningful way. So he assimilated and included all aspects into a certain format – as the Yoga Sutras around 500 BC. Patañjali divided the Yoga Sutras into four chapters, he wrote the eight sutras known as Ashtanga Yoga around 500 BC, describing the eight limbs of Yoga, each focusing on the importance of achieving the balance between body and mind, health and harmony, step by steps guide on how to achieve it through discipline and practice.

A brief rundown of the 8 limbs:

• The Universal Morality (Yama), explaining the virtue of nonviolence/non-injury to others.
• The Personal Observance (Niyam), telling us how Niyama helps in the personal growth.
• Body Poses (asanas), using asanas to open the physical body and bring about the flexibility in life.
• Breathing exercises (Pranayam), how to channelize the “Prana” the Vital source for our living, how to breathe deeply resulting in ultimate relaxation of mind.
• Controlling our senses (Pratayahara), so that we are better able to control our cravings, so that we are not influenced by outside sensations that tend to impact our inner peace and tranquillity, resulting in a physical or mental imbalance.
• Inner awareness and power of concentration (Dharana),focussing attention in one direction instead of going out in many different directions, concentrating on what is more wholesome for body and mind, for soul and how to achieve the concept of “One point focus”.
• Meditation (Dhayana), how to further unify the consciousness, how to see things clearly and lift the veil of confusion and illusion that clouds our sense our reasoning… and the final step
• Oneness, union with supreme power with Divine (Samadhi), in this state body and senses are at rest, yet the mind is alert, one goes beyond consciousness, perfect state of harmony and tranquility!

Patanjali is also regarded as a great scholar of Sanskrit language. Sutra is a Sanskrit term which means ‘thread’. The Yoga sutras are compiled by Patanjali in a thread form, but today due to lack of proper understanding and ignorance, have just taken these sutras and are trying to implement it as it is. It must be understood that a thread is of no consequence by itself as though there can never be a garland without the thread but no one ever wears a garland for the sake of the thread. Patanjali complied the Yoga principles as sutra (thread) with the motive that each master makes his/her own kind of garland. Just as on the thread flowers, beads, pearls and diamond can be put according to convenience, the Yoga sutras are also vital but that is not a goal by itself.

The Jeeva Samadhi (shrine) of Maharishi Patanjali is believed to be situated in Tirupattur Brahmapureeswarar Temple Complex, located about 30 km from Trichy town in the Tamil Nadu province of South India, where Lord Brahma installed 12 Shiva Lingams and worshipped Lord Shiva. Though now not physically present in the world, Maharishi Patanjali’s contribution in the science of Yoga by the compilation of Yoga sutras will always be remembered and is still followed by large number of Yoga practitioners worldwide.  

For more information visit the official website of Ministry of Ayush: http://www.indianmedicine.nic.in/

Facebook page: International Day of Yoga

Twitter id: @IntlDayofYoga

The Importance of knowing the History of Yoga and Its Benefits

(Pic courtesy: www.bloomyoganj.com)

The very term ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit word which means to unite. Yoga is the practice of uniting mind and body into a blissful union. In a more spiritual context, Yoga is also the unison of the soul and the ultimate supreme self. Practicing Yoga helps us find peace in this chaotic world and help withdraw our mind from the countless distractions and worries of the world. The goal is to go beyond the trappings of the world and find solace and purpose in life. Yoga is a way of living that expects us to live every moment of our life for a greater purpose rather than to fulfill our selfish goals. The modern take on Yoga is somewhat distorted and completely varies from its tradition and history.

Practicing Yoga has suddenly become stylish and hip, but understanding the true essence of yoga is important to truly understand and experience its benefits. The most renowned knowledge and understanding of Yoga comes from the Yogasutras, which is an ancient scripture about Yoga by Maharishi Patanjali. It was practiced in and around the Indian subcontinent and was an integral part of people’s day to day life. Yoga’s many breathing technique is based on the belief that breath is the source of life and controlling breathing helps us control our life in a better way.  Breath control helps in improving health and mental strength. The ancient Buddhist Yoga consisted of the concept of meditation which is a big part of Yoga today.

Yoga: The Idyllic Union of the Mind and the Soul

There are about four type of Yoga namely ‘Hatha Yoga’, ‘Laya Yoga’, ‘Raja Yoga and ‘Mantra Yoga’. The ascetics in the Vedic period used to abolish all material pleasures and pursuits and used to practice Yoga and meditation to feel one with God. The practice of Yoga was then passed on to students for generations and many paintings, scriptures and murals mention the sacred art of Yoga and meditation. Teachings of Patanjali became what are today known as Ashtanga Yoga or the eight limbs of Yoga.

Ashtanga Yoga has eight main aspects and they are Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dhgarana, Dhyana and Samadhi. It is believed that regular practice of Yoga leads to many transcendental states of consciousness. The highest state of Yoga is “Samadhi” which is the stage of unity. It is believed to liberate us completely and pave our way to reaching the Supreme power. There are other amazing benefits that are mentioned in the Yoga sutras. There is in-depth knowledge of the body, mind and our sensory perceptions. It is believed that once you have mastered all the stages of Yoga you will incur supernatural abilities and will have the ability to control your body and consciousness.

(Pic courtesy: www.jsonline.com)

(Pic courtesy: wellbeingmantras.com)

Although the modern take on the practice of Yoga might vary greatly from the true knowledge, history and tradition of Yoga, it’s how you inculcate these teachings is what matters. To learn the true art of Yoga and meditation, it’s important to have a proper teacher. A true Guru will help you to leave all your stress and tensions behind and pursue the union of your soul and mind. These poses and asanas help build character and integrity which makes you a much better person. So, now you know that yoga is not just a cool new workout routine, it goes beyond the mere nitty gritties of life itself.  

For more information visit the official website of ministry of Ayush: http://www.indianmedicine.nic.in/

Facebook page: International Day of Yoga

Twitter id: @IntlDayofYoga

The Importance of Being Aware About the Yogic Traditions

(Pic courtesy: metlifestyle.com)

Culture and tradition are two things that are always associated with India and is an integral part of the country. The heritage of India is deep rooted and consists of ancient knowledge and teachings that span centuries. While the nation as a whole has accomplished so much over decades, it still holds on to some of its beliefs and teachings of yore. Yoga has been part of the Indian culture and tradition for centuries now. Although it has evolved and adapted to suit the taste of the modern day Yogi, the core values are still the same.  

The tradition and teachings of Yoga have crossed several borders and people from around the world are adopting it. The modernized version of Yoga has been modified to attract more people. But there are still some places in India that practice Yoga in its true essence. Yoga is a spiritual science which has evolved through hundreds and thousands of years of practice, study, and experience. The union of mind, our emotions, and our soul is what underlies the Yogic tradition.

Researchers say that Yoga was practiced way before the Indus Valley people and there are many wall murals that depict the different Yoga postures and teachings. Although Maharishi Patanjali was the one who jotted down all the information and knowledge regarding Yoga, he was not the one who invented the practice. Yoga had been around even before his time. The teachings were based on from one person to another and evolved with each century.

Strengthen the Mind-Body Connect With Yoga

(Pic coutresy: Thinking in Vedas)

Amidst the teachings of Yoga, there is a huge place for Lord Shiva who is considered as a symbol of the supreme sense of unity and consciousness. The union of Shiva and Parvati is something that many are aware of, Yogic tradition manifests a similar sense of union.  That is a powerful union of the soul with the ultimate self.  Ashtanga Yoga is the one most Yoga practitioners are aware of, but there were other forms and types of Yoga in the ancient times. The tradition of meditation that came from the period of Buddha was also added to the overall practice of Yoga.

(Pic courtesy: yogaclothinguk.wordpress.com)

(Pic courtesy: www.beattractive.org) 

Today meditation and asanas go hand in hand and one is incomplete without the other. Unlike most people think, Yoga is not a religion or Hinduism. Yoga is a way of life which is dedicated to enriching our health and also decluttering our minds. It’s ideal for people who want to lead a wholesome life wherein they are free from a clouded vision of ego, anger and other negative emotions.

(Pic courtesy: www.theresnomagicpill.com)

The underlying philosophy is that of spiritual liberation and discarding impurities from our body and mind. Along with the daily practice of Yoga, the Yogis or ascetics believed in consuming a simple vegetarian fare that enriches the body. The actual practice of Yoga was more intensive and exclusive compared to the modern take on it.  Yoga started with a soothing OUM chanting and breathing exercise to prepare the body for the exercise and then performing all the asanas. It was a way to connect and communicate with God. Although we have left behind a lot of concepts and teachings of Yoga, it still maintains all the important teachings.

5 Most Beneficial Yoga Poses for Swimmers

(Pic courtesy: www.lifefitness.com)

Swimmers are people who must have to be really flexible with their moves. And the more flexible, more successful swimmer he is. So it is must for a swimmer to maintain the right tone of the body and should practice daily to maintain the flexibility of the body. This really makes sense that yoga is the one of the best way for the swimmers as it all deals with flexibility of the body and toning the body. Practicing Yoga daily will help the swimmers to have a better swimming skills and diving skills. Only the best flexible swimmer will top the list. Yoga practice will definitely help them to have a flexible and toned body.

Some best Yoga posses for swimmers

There are many Yoga posses that will get best result in flexibility of the body. But when it comes to swimming, certain posses will really support the swimming styles. Some of the best supporting posses of yoga are listed below:

1.     Adho Mukha Svanasana

(Pic courtesy:  www.yogasportdallas.com)

This is simply a gentle inverted pose that enables a clear and easy flow of blood to our brain. This pose really helps in stretching the arms, shoulders, arches, calves and hamstrings. This pose is meant for rendering a new level of energy and thus reduces anxiety, tension and stress of the person. For a swimmer, peace of mind is very important to concentrate on his performances. If you are a person new to this pose, then make use of a mat or cushion. Breathe well during the pose. It helps in enhancing more concentration.

2.     Bhujangasana

(Pic courtesy:  konayoga.com)

It is a prone yoga pose. It helps you to restore your energy by keeping you calm but at the same time it benefits you with numerous physical fitness and flexibilities. Suck your breath deep and then life up your torso from the floor. It is important that you have to hold your breath steadily throughout the pose. It strengthens your spinal cord and upper back.

3.     Gomukhasana

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

This is another asana which will actually looks so easy but it is little tougher. The reason behind the name of the asana is that the person in this asana will appear like posing like a cow face. In Sanskrit ‘gau’ is ‘cow’, ‘mukha’ is ‘face’ and ‘asana’ is ‘posture’. It helps in maintaining a healthy limb and arm while providing flexibility in arms and shoulders. This practice will really help while you dive.

4.      Salabhasana

(Pic courtesy: www.motleyhealth.com)

Salabhasana is known as the locust pose. The person who does this pose must have to lift up his legs backward and top of the body and should hold the hands backward. This is meant for improving the posture and to strengthen your back and core of the body. 

5.     Dhanurasana

(Pic courtesy: www.satyaliveyoga.com.au)

This is again more like the Salabhasana, but did little more. You have to turn backward like a bow and have to hold your feet with hands while your stomach part lies on floor. This pose will eventually develop more flexibility in your body.

It is must that all these poses must be learnt well from a right master and has to be practiced well to get the best results. 

Wonders of Yoga - Healthy heart with simple Yoga

Modern times demand a competitive edge and hard work from an individual, all through their life. It therefore seems only natural to balance one’s life with distressing Yoga and a health benefiting exercise now, doesn't it? Some of the most significant benefits of Yoga include weight reduction, stamina building and improving an individual’s endurance and flexibility.

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

A simple system of stress management, to promote good health and a healthy heart in particular can essentially be focused on, especially for heart patients, with Cardiac Yoga. This type of Yoga is relatively modern and backed-up with ample research on how yoga proves beneficial for the heart. Here are a few reasons why Yoga is a desired exercising routine for all individuals and an absolute for heart patients:

·       This age old practice, which dates back to ancient India, is indeed known to help in keeping one’s heart in shape. Various Yoga exercises like stretching and downward dogs have been known to help cardiac patients and promote a healthy heart.

·       Physical activity is often promoted by Yoga exercises as the lack of it is one of the leading reasons for heart diseases in both the genders.

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

·       With consistent Yoga exercises and everyday routines, one can successfully overcome anxiety and depression, few of the reasons that induce physical inactivity, smoking, high blood pressure, which leads to heart diseases.

·       Yoga can help you in managing your hypertension as well! Studies reveal that Yoga helps in improving physical fitness, reducing stress and thus, in helping an individual lower their blood pressure.

·       Heart failures due to failure or low aerobic capacities can be worked on with some simple Yoga exercises. Besides helping in improving the aerobic capacity, it can also help with improving an individual’s endurance, flexibility and decrease heart inflammation.

·       Irregular heartbeats, which often lead to stroke or other cardiac complications can be worked on with Yoga! Research proves that Yoga has the potential that is needed to help people with an abnormal heart rhythm and in reducing their irregular beat episodes.

·       Certain studies even demonstrate how Yoga and exercise routines have the same effect on cardiac patients as brisk walking or biking. Cardiovascular markers for heart diseases have been observed for people doing Yoga and promising results have led to a wide spread belief of Yoga as a physical activity for heart patients.

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

Cardiac patients are often advised on the different routines that their heart can benefit from and hence, it is in the best interest to consult the concerned doctor. Yoga is an art of meditation, exercising and focus on one’s own body and mind. Hence, when it comes to Yoga routines and exercises for health benefits, then it is best to consult a doctor and know about the best suited stretches and exercises beforehand.

More research is needed to prove the benefits of Yoga and its help in curing heart diseases and related abnormalities but current studies are definitely encouraging the art; it is a comparatively cost effective and beneficial to the mind and body indeed now, isn’t it? 

Know your Personality through Yoga

We all have our own likings and preferences, and like everything else you may have your favorite Yoga pose too, something you prefer above all others, some may like a rigorous stretching down the spine while others may prefer to lie peacefully in a  corpse pose. But did you know it also tells about your state of mind and mood? Surprised?

Well yes, may be today you look forward to an intense challenging work out and tomorrow you just want a slow bit spiritually calming session. Unfold the mystery and see what your Yoga pose tells about your personality!!

Shavasana (Corpse Pose)

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

If your mind feels calm with the thought of this pose, it means you desire relaxation, the little “me” time; you are tired and crave for rest.  You listen to the needs of your body, which is a great thing to practice. Go ahead, relax your body and mind, rejuvenate yourself, this simple relaxing pose will revive you and get you going for the new day ahead!!

Vrikshaasana (Tree pose)

(Pic courtesy: www.metaphysics-knowledge.com)

As you balance on one leg, this pose requires a lot of inner and outer strength; it’s not as easy as it looks. However, if you like this pose then you are competitive with yourself, you like testing your limits, yet you are grounded. To others you seem to be calm and composed, standing gracefully in this pose, yet inside you know that how much effort you have put in to achieve that grace and calm that radiated from your personality!

Keep up the good work, you are a real charmer!

  

Padmaasana (Lotus Pose)

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

If you prefer this pose, you are a spiritual person, mental peace is above all for you and you are well connected with your inner self. You are competitive person who knows how to achieve success by being patient, quiet and poised. You don’t rush things and you see good in others. Well, continue being so well connected with your higher self; you have what it takes to lead a healthy holistic life.

Kapotaasana (Pigeon Pose)

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

This pose is known to improve the overall posture and flexibility of a human body. If you prefer this pose, you are craving to release stress, anxiety and negative emotions that are bottled up inside, as hips release the negative feelings and energy from your system since stress, tension and anxiety are often stored there.

You value relationships, so continue to enjoy this pose while many others simply shy away, it’s better to release negativity and anxiety by practicing this pose rather than simply exploding and  venting out on our colleagues, and near and dear ones!

Sirsasana (Headstand Pose)

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

It is indeed a challenging pose, definitely not so easy. If this is your pick then you are different from the crowd, you seek a challenging, adventurous life, and you know how to do that. You have an out of the box thinking and you see the world with a different perspective. You know how to calm and distress with a little adventure and a lot of challenges.

No matter what your favorite pose is, keep moving, keep stretching and relaxing for a better healthier and happier you.

5 Undeniable Benefits of Padmasana

Yoga’s appeal and popularity has increased over the years and more and more people are practicing Yoga on a daily basis. This ancient Indian practice has many takers and the benefits of Yoga have made it one of the most sought after workout option. One of the obvious benefits of Yoga is the fact that Yoga can be practiced by people of all age groups and is safer than other workout routines. There is no point in spending hundreds and thousands on gym memberships when you can benefit from the simple art of Yoga.

There are innumerable poses and postures in Yoga and mastering every one of them take time and an extreme level of concentration. But unlike rigorous and strenuous exercise routine, yoga is easier to learn and people adapt to the different aspects of Yoga easily. It can be practiced in a group or alone, wither way Yoga is bound to make you feel more strong and healthy within the first couple of weeks. 

Mastering the different poses is not easy since you require stability and flexibility for that. Our body tends to get really stiff and rigid due to lack of physical exercise, but regular practice of Yoga can bring a positive change. One of the most beneficial asana is Padmasana, also known as the Lotus pose. Although Padmasana might seem like a really easy pose to do, the proper manifestation of the asana is important. The back posture and the placement of the hands and legs should be proper for it to benefit you. This simple asana has many benefits which is why it is one of the most practiced pose. 

Let us look at some of the most basic benefits of the Lotus pose.

Benefits of Padmasana

(Pic courtesy: Wikipedia)

·       Good for your spine

The foremost benefit of Padmasana is the effect it has on your spine and your posture. Most people with a strenuous desk job have crooked and bent postures due to the constant sitting. Lack of movement and flexibility can damage our posture to a great extent. It is said that if you practice Padmasana until late pregnancy, it helps in easing childbirth. It relieves the sciatica pain and improves our posture.

·       Deal with menstrual discomforts

Women will definitely appreciate this benefit. Every month women have to deal with many problems of menstruation, from irregular flow to cramps. These couple of days until the m3enustration has stopped can be extremely discomforting and painful. Sitting in Padmasana helps ease this discomfort and pain that women go through every month. The pose helps in better blood circulation and eases pain in the lower part of the body.

·       Combat joint pains and discomfort

Joint pains are not something that only old folks suffer from. Today joint aches are quite common even among the younger folk due to bad posture and lack of exercise. The lotus pose helps in easing joint pains and help attain more flexibility. The pose is good for your pelvis, hips and other joints. Since this is a beginner’s pose, it’s easy to learn it.

·       Helps you relax and calms your mind

Padmasana is very relaxing and has a calming effect on your mind and body. If you are dealing with innumerable stress, this is the pose for you. Many people practice the Lotus pose to attain mental peace and to relieve stress. If you feel nervous or stressed, sitting in Padmasana can instantly soothe your frayed nerves.

·       Helps boost appetite

Padmasana benefits those who have trouble eating or digesting their food. The Lotus pose is known to improve your digestion and increase one’s appetite. Regular practice of the pose can help in increasing hunger and dealing with problems like gas and constipation.

These are some of the undeniable benefits of Padmasana. Although it’s fairly simple compared to other poses, it has many benefits. 

Yoga & Faith

It’s said that faith can move mountains, and could it be true? Well, eternal optimists say yes, though there is no concrete evidence as such.

Faith varies in its definition from person to person, as it is very individualistic in nature. But for anything to work in our lives we need faith and faith in Yoga leads to not only a person’s overall well being but also helps one begin on the path of Moksha or salvation if one desires.

Moksha is spoken of in a spiritual manner and just like faith and everyone has their own definition of spirituality. Spiritual maturity doesn’t necessarily mean years of meditation. It just means a person is aware of every breath of life and tries to make the most of it for self and by helping others. Spiritual maturity simply means realizing that everything is transient hence people stay in the present without dwelling over what is done and without worrying about what is to come.

Pic courtesy: Thinking in Vedas

Instead of getting into the details of types of Yoga, let’s just say that the overall research proves one could reach on the highest peaks spiritually and even attain Moksha or salvation! For this, one needs to go through and then remain in a state of detachment. To realize and practice detachment we have to, once again, accept that everything in this world is transient hence detachment makes sense. Well, is that easy? Definitely not! 

That is where the realization that the soul is immortal matters. And once we realize that our souls are indestructible we definitely need to focus on our thoughts and deeds in human form. Purity of thoughts and selfless deeds is also a form of Yoga- Karma Yoga, this helps one to get onto the path of Moksha, and then to stay on this path, it is very important that one strives for peace in every manner.

In order to gain from this form of health science, one has to practice Yoga not only on the mat, but also off it. Only then can we say that it is not just a form of exercise but a way of life. Also we all know that no spiritual or practical aspect of our lives can begin without our having faith in what we want and what we do to achieve it. The same stands true for Yoga! A person could be practicing Asanas for hours and years, but may get very little results and declare that Yoga doesn't work. On the other hand one may practice Yoga for a limited one hour daily and gain a lot. The difference here would be that of faith. A believer will surely reap more benefits than a non believer from Yoga. ‘Keep the Faith’ does make sense!

Only if we have faith will we be able to reap manifold benefits. Without getting into the details of those benefits, we all know that practicing Yoga not only has physical but also mental and emotional health benefits, and all this put together could help a person mature spiritually as well. Having faith in what one wants or is doing brings more motivation and conviction to the goal or act and the achievement then becomes easier!

(Pic courtesy: beirutyogacenter.com)

There was a time when very few believed in Yoga but with the recent Yoga Day, going global and aptly being titled ‘International Yoga Day’, proves that this way of life is not limited to few cultures but its benefits are now being given a worldwide recognition!

Yoga> Physical-Mental-Emotional Health Benefits> Spiritual Maturity... it’s all in good faith.