What Is Yoga?

Well. Maybe we should start with what yoga is...

Yoga means "to yoke" or "unite." Yoking typically refers to "yoke oxen," when a farmer would harness two oxen together to accomplish harder work. So energies were combined. In yoga, we focus on uniting breath with awareness and movement. In turn, that unites the body to the mind. When we are able to unite body and mind through focus on the breath, and awareness of movement we are able to be present in the moment. When we are present in the now, we are able to find a sense of stillness and peace. In that space of stillness and awareness, we are able to listen. Listen to our innate senses, our intuition, our true self. So yoga helps us find our true nature, and once we find it, listen to it! To find that sense of knowing, that sense of truth - whatever truth that may be. 

Yoga is like a multifaceted diamond. There are many facets and dimensions depending on how the light shines. This is part of why I think yoga is so wonderful; it's versatile. Anyone can pick which parts work for them or leave which parts don't, whether that's in the style or the philosophy, and receive benefits. 

​Everyone, no matter what age or ability, can experience and practice yoga. On a physical level, while our body moves into an asana (or pose), our brain is making a connection with that movement, creating a link. Each time that link is made, the connection grows stronger, eventually becoming more easily accessible leading to strength and mobility. On a mental level, we slowly train our brain to observe sensations, to become still, to be focused. These skills are what translate off the mat into daily life. Staying focused on tasks at hand. Being able to observe emotions and responses we have to external experiences. Being able to center ourself amidst all of that. The asana practice where we challenge our body by moving into sometimes uncomfortable positions and practicing awareness and breath control to find a little more ease in that discomfort, or to find space to be open, trains our brain to do the same thing, find stillness and ease, in circumstances in life that are outside of our control. 

Perhaps the most important aspect of practicing yoga is the breath. Breath is our life force! Bringing oxygen into the body to sustain our brain and heart and then disposing of any toxins simultaneously. Focus on the breath also exercises the respiratory system which helps us breathe more fully all the time. 

This is a tiny summary! More thoughts to come :)

All in all: YOGA IS POWERFUL

It's a wonderful resource available to bring more peace and sense of fulfillment to life.