Yoga Relaxation Techniques

THE ESOTERIC THEORY OF BREATH - Part 2

2010-04-21T03:48:00.000-07:00

The oxygen in the air plays an important part in sustaining animal life, and the carbon plays a similar part with plant life, but Prana has its own distinct part to play in the manifestation of life, aside from the physiological functions.We are constantly inhaling the air charged with prana, and are as constantly extracting the latter from the air and appropriating it to our uses.

Prana is found in its freest state in the atmospheric air, which when fresh is fairly charged with it, and we draw it to us more easily from the air than from any other source. In ordinary breathing we absorb and extract a normal supply of prana, but by controlled and regulated breathing (generally known as Yogi breathing) we are enabled to extract a greater supply, which is stored away in the brain and nerve centers, to be used when necessary. We may store away prana, just as the storage battery stores away electricity.

The many powers attributed to advanced occultists is due largely to their knowledge of this fact and their intelligent use of this stored-up energy. The Yogis know that by certain forms of breathing they establish certain relations with the supply of prana and may draw on the same for what they require. Not only do they strengthen all parts of their body in this way, but the brain itself may receive increased energy from the same source, and latent faculties be developed and psychic powers attained.

One who has mastered the science of storing away prana, either consciously or unconsciously, often radiates vitality and strength which is felt by those coming in contact with him, and such a person may impart this strength to others, and give them increased vitality and health. What is called “magnetic healing” is performed in this way, although many practitioners are not aware of the source of their power.

Western scientists have been dimly aware of this great principle with which the air is charged, but finding that they could find no chemical trace of it, or make it register an any of their instruments, they have generally treated the Oriental theory with disdain.

They could not explain this principle, and so denied it. They seem, however, to recognize that the air in certain places possesses a greater amount of “something” and sick people are directed by their physicians to seek such places in hopes of regaining, lost health. The oxygen in the air is appropriated by the blood and is made use of by the circulatory system.

The prana in the air is appropriated by the nervous system, and is used in its work. And as the oxygenated blood is carried to all parts of the system, building up and replenishing, so is the prana carried to all parts of the nervous system, adding strength and vitality. If we think of prana as being the active principle of what we call “vitality,” we will be able to form a much clearer idea of what an important part it plays in our lives.

Just as is the oxygen in the blood used up by the wants of the system, so the supply of prana taken up by the nervous system is exhausted by our thinking, willing, acting, etc., and in consequence constant replenishing is necessary.

Every thought, every act, every effort of the will, every motion of a muscle, uses up a certain amount of what we call nerve force, which is really a form of prana. To move a muscle the brain sends out an impulse over the nerves, and the muscle contracts, and so much prana is expended. When it is remembered that the greater portion of prana acquired by man comes to him from the air inhaled, the importance of proper breathing is readily understood.

From - THE HINDU-YOGI Science of Breath

THE ESOTERIC THEORY OF BREATH - Part 1

2010-04-21T03:06:00.000-07:00

The Science of Breath, like many other teachings, has its esoteric or inner phase, as well as its exoteric or external. The physiological phase may be termed the outer or exoteric side of the subject, and the phase which we will now consider may be termed its esoteric or inner side. Occultists, in all ages and lands, have always taught, usually secretly to a few followers, that there was to be found in the air a substance or principle from which all activity, vitality and life was derived. They differed in their terms and names for this force, as well as in the details of the theory, but the main principle is to be found in all occult teachings and philosophies, and has for centuries formed a portion of the teachings of the Oriental Yogis.

In order to avoid misconceptions arising from the various theories regarding this great principle, which theories are usually attached to some name given the principle, we, in this work, will speak of the principle as “Prana,” this word being the Sanskrit term meaning “Absolute Energy.” Many occult authorities teach that the principle which the Hindus term “Prana” is the universal principle of energy or force, and that all energy or force is derived from that principle, or, rather, is a particular form of manifestation of that principle. These theories do not concern us in the consideration of the subject matter of this work, and we will therefore confine ourselves to an understanding of prana as the principle of energy exhibited in all living things, which distinguishes them from a lifeless thing.

We may consider it as the active principle of life—Vital Force, if you please. It is found in all forms of life, from the amoeba to man—from the most elementary form of plant life to the highest form of animal life. Prana is all pervading. It is found in all things having life, and as the occult philosophy teaches that life is in all things—in every atom—the apparent lifelessness of some things being only a lesser degree of manifestation, we may understand their teachings that prana is everywhere, in everything.

Prana must not be confounded with the Ego—that bit of Divine Spirit in every soul, around which clusters matter and energy. Prana is merely a form of energy used by the Ego in its material manifestation. When the Ego leaves the body, the prana, being no longer under its control, responds only to the orders of the individual atoms, or groups of atoms, forming the body, and as the body disintegrates and is resolved to its original elements, each atom takes with it sufficient prana to enable it to form new combinations, the unused prana returning to the great universal storehouse from which it came. With the Ego in control, cohesion exists and the atoms are held together by the Will of the Ego. Prana is the name by which we designate a universal principle, which principle is the essence of all motion, force or energy, whether manifested in gravitation, electricity, the revolution of the planets, and all forms of life, from the highest to the lowest.

It may be called the soul of Force and Energy in all their forms, and that principle which, operating in a certain way, causes that form of activity which accompanies Life. This great principle is in all forms of matter, and yet it is not matter. It is in the air, but it is not the air nor one of its chemical constituents. Animal and plant life breathe it in with the air, and yet if the air contained it not they would die even though they might be filled with air. It is taken up by the system along with the oxygen, and yet is not the oxygen.

The Hebrew writer of the book of Genesis knew the difference between the atmospheric air and the mysterious and potent principle contained within it. He speaks of neshemet ruach chayim, which, translated, means “the breath of the spirit of life.” In the Hebrew neshemet means the ordinary breath of atmospheric air, and chayim means life or lives, while the word ruach means the “spirit of life,” which occultists claim is the same principle which we speak of as Prana. Prana is in the atmospheric air, but it is also elsewhere, and it penetrates where the air cannot reach.

From - THE HINDU-YOGI Science of Breath

MANTRA YOGA SADHANA - Mantra Yoga

2010-02-17T04:21:00.000-08:00

Mantra Yoga is an exact science. “Mananat trayate iti mantrah”—by the Manana (constant thinking or recollection) of which one is released from the round of births and deaths, is Mantra. Every Mantra has a Rishi who gave it to the world; a Mantra, a Devata, the Bija or seed which gives it a special power, the Sakti and the Kilakam or the pillar. A Mantra is Divinity.

Mantra and its presiding Devata are one. The Mantra itself is Devata. Mantra is divine power, Daivi Sakti, manifesting in a sound body. Constant repetition of a Mantra with faith, devotion and purity augments the Sakti or power of the aspirant, purifies and awakens the Mantra Chaitanya latent in the Mantra and bestows on the Sadhaka Mantra Siddhi, illumination, freedom, peace, eternal bliss, immortality. By constant repetition of the Mantra the Sadhaka imbibes the virtues and power of the Deity that presides over the Mantra. Repetition of Surya Mantra bestows health, long life, vigour, vitality, Tejas or brilliance. It removes all diseases of the body and the diseases of the eye.

No enemy can do any harm. Repetition of Aditya-hridayam in the early morning, is highly beneficial. Lord Rama conquered Ravana through the repetition of Aditya-hridayam imparted by Agastya Rishi. Mantras are in the form of praise and appeal to the deities, craving for help and mercy. Some Mantras control and command the evil spirits. Rhythmical vibrations of sound give rise to forms. Recitation of Mantras gives rise to the formation of the particular figure of the deity.

Repetition of Sarasvati Mantra OM Sarasvatyai Namah will bestow on you wisdom and good intelligence. You will get inspiration and compose poems. Repetition of ‘Om Sri Mahalakshmyai Namah’ will confer wealth and remove poverty. Ganesha Mantra will remove any obstacle in any undertaking. Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra will remove accidents, incurable diseases and bestow long life and immortality. It is a Moksha Mantra too. Repetition of Subramanya Matra ‘Om Saravanabhavaya Namah’ will give you success in any undertaking and make you glorious. It will drive off the evil influences and evil spirits. Repetition of Sri Hanuman Mantra, ‘Om Hanumanthaya Namah’ will bestow victory and strength. Repetition of Panchakshara and Shodasakshara (Sri Vidya) will give you whatever you want. You must learn this Vidya from a Guru alone. Repetition of Gayatri or Pranava, ‘Om Namah Sivaya’, ‘Om Namo Narayanaya’, ‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’, one and a quarter lakh of times with Bhava, faith and devotion will confer on you Mantra Siddhi. ‘Om’, ‘Soham’, ‘Sivoham’, ‘Aham Brahmasmi’ are Moksha Mantras.

They will help you to attain Self-realisation. ‘Om Sri Ramaya Namah’, ‘Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya’ are Saguna Mantras which will enable you to attain Saguna realisation first and then Nirguna realisation in the end. Mantra for curing scorpion stings and cobra bites should be repeated on eclipse days for getting Mantra Siddhi quickly. You should stand in water and repeat Mantras. This is more powerful and effective. These can be recited on ordinary days also for attaining Mantra Siddhi. Mantra Siddhi for curing scorpion sting, cobra bites, etc., can be attained within 40 days. Repeat the Mantra with faith and devotion regularly.

Have a sitting in the early morning after taking bath. Observe Brahmacharya and live on milk and fruits for 40 days or take restricted diet. Chronic diseases can be cured by Mantras. Chanting of Mantras generate potent spiritual waves or divine vibrations. They penetrate the physical and astral bodies of the patients and remove the root causes of sufferings. They fill the cells with pure Sattva or divine energy. They destroy the microbes and vivify the cells and tissues. They are best, most potent antiseptics and germicides. They are more potent than ultra-violet rays or Rountgen rays.

Mantra Siddhi should not be misused for the destruction of others. Those who misuse Mantra power for destroying others are themselves destroyed in the end. Those who utilise Mantra power in curing snake bites, scorpion stings and chronic diseases should not accept any kind of presents or money. They must be absolutely unselfish. They should not accept even fruits or clothes. They will lose the power if they utilise the power for selfish purposes. If they are absolutely unselfish, if they serve humanity with Sarvatma Bhava, their power will increase through the grace of the Lord.

He who has attained Mantra Siddhi can cure cobra bite or scorpion sting or any chronic disease by a mere touch on the affected part. When a man is bitten by a cobra a telegram is sent to the Mantra Siddha. The Mantra Siddha recites the Mantra and the man who is bitten by a cobra is cured. What a grand marvel! Does this not prove the tremendous power of Mantra? Get the Mantra initiation from your Guru or pray to your Ishta Devata and start doing Japa of the particular Mantra, if you find it difficult to get a Guru.

May you all become Mantra Yogis with Mantra Siddhi! May you all become real benefactors of the world by becoming divine healers through Mantra cure! May Mantra-Cure, divine healing centres be started all over the world!

From Yoga in Daily Life.

Lessons In Yoga Exercises - Part 2

2010-02-04T03:03:00.000-08:00

Lessons In Yoga Exercises Part 2

Gomukha- Asana .
22.Placing the right ankle on the left side and the left ankle on the right side, makes Gomukha-asana, having the appearance of a cow.

Virasana.
23. One foot is to be placed on the thigh of the opposite side; and
so also the other foot on the opposite thigh. This is called Virâsana.

Kurmasana.
24. Placing the right ankle on the left side of the anus, and the left
ankle on the right side of it, makes what the Yogis call Kurmaâsana.

Kukkuta asana.
25. Taking the posture of Padmâ-âsana and carrying the hands
under the thighs, when the Yogi raises himself above the ground,
with his palms resting on the ground, it becomes Kukkuta-âsana.

Lessons In Yoga Exercises - Part 1

2010-02-04T02:35:00.000-08:00

On asanas.
1. Salutation to Âdinatha (Siva) who expounded the knowledge of Hatha Yoga, which like a staircase leads the aspirant to the high pinnacled Raja Yoga.
2. Yogin Swatmarama, after saluting his Gurû Srinatha explains Hatha Yoga for the attainment of Raja Yoga.
3. Owing to the darkness arising from the multiplicity of opinions people are unable to know the Raja Yoga. Compassionate Swatmarama composes the Hatha Yoga Pradipika like a torch to dispel it.
4. Matsyendra, Goraksa, etc., knew Hatha Vidya, and by their favor Yogi Swatmarama also learnt it from them.
5. The following Siddhas (masters) are said to have existed in former times:- Sri Adinatha (Siva), Matsyendra, Natha, Sabar, Anand, Bhairava, Chaurangi, Mina Natha, Goraksanatha, Virupaksa, Bilesaya.
6. Manthana, Bhairava, Siddhi Buddha, Kanthadi, Karantaka, Surananda, Siddhipada, Charapati.
7. Kaneri, Pujyapada, Nityanatha, Niranjana, Kapali, Vindunatha, Kaka Chandiswara.
8. Allama, Prabhudeva, Ghoda, Choli, Tintini, Bhanuki, Nardeva, Khanda Kapalika, etc.
9. These Mahasiddhas (great masters), breaking the sceptre of death, are roaming in the universe.
10. Like a house protecting one from the heat of the sun, Hatha Yoga protects its practisers from the burning heat of the three Tapas; and, similarly, it is the supporting tortoise, as it were, for those who are constantly devoted to the practice of Yoga.
11. A yogi desirous of success should keep the knowledge of Hatha Yoga secret; for it becomes potent by concealing, and impotent by exposing.
12. The Yogi should practice Hatha Yoga in a small room, situated in a solitary place, being 4 cubits square, and free from stones, fire, water, disturbances of all kinds, and in a country where justice is properly administered, where good people live, and food can be obtained easily and plentifully.
13. The room should have a small door, be free from holes, hollows, neither too high nor too low, well plastered with cow-dung and free from dirt, filth and insects. On its outside there should be bowers, raised platform (chabootra), a well, and a compound. These characteristics of a room for Hatha Yogis have been described by adepts in the practice of Hatha.
14. Having seated in such a room and free from all anxieties, he should practice Yoga, as instructed by his gurû .
15. Yoga is destroyed by the following six causes:-- Over-eating, exertion, talkativeness, adhering to rules, i.e., cold bath in the morning, eating at night, or eating fruits only, company of men, and unsteadiness.
16. The following six bring speedy success:-- Courage, daring, perseverance, discriminative knowledge, faith, aloofness from company.
17. The ten rules of conduct are: ahimsâ (non-injuring), truth, nonstealing, continence, forgiveness, endurance, compassion, meekness, sparing diet, and cleanliness.
18. The ten niyamas mentioned by those proficient in the knowledge of Yoga are: Tapa, patience, belief in God, charity, adoration of God, hearing discourses on the principles of religion, shame, intellect, Tapa and Yajna. Asanas.
19. Being the first accessory of Hatha Yoga, asana is described first. It should be practiced for gaining steady posture, health and lightness of body.
20. I am going to describe certain âsanas which have been adopted by Munis like Vasistha, etc., and Yogis like Matsyendra, etc. Swastika-asana.
21.Having kept both the hands under both the thighs, with the body straight, when one sits calmly in this posture, it is called

Swastika Gomukha-asana.

Yoga Stretches For The Office - Part 1

2010-01-27T02:49:00.000-08:00

Although these exercises have been selected because they are generally simple and safe, if you have any medical concerns or if you are pregnant, please consult with your physician before beginning this exercise program.

1. Releasing breath: Stand with your feet about 6 inches apart and your arms hanging loosely by your sides. Inhale raising your arms overhead, stretching your arms and back.

As you exhale, bend forward from the hip with the knees slightly bent. Allow the upper torso and head to hang down. With the next inbreath, roll up and again raise the arms above the head, stretching upward.

Release into the stretch as you exhale, letting go a little more with each outbreath. Continue for 3 – 5 breaths.

Chair Stretches

To begin: Sit comfortably in a chair with both feet on the floor, arms resting lightly on your lap, and your eyes closed or gazing softly downward. Bring your spine as straight as possible with your chest lifted. Release your shoulders down; allow your face to relax, and your jaw to hang loosely. Breathe: Take a few releasing breaths, inhaling and exhaling through your nose. Focus on the movement of your belly as you breathe – notice the slight inflation of the belly on the inbreath and the flattening back on the outbreath.

Remember, each outbreath brings an opportunity to let go of any unnecessary tension you may be holding. Note: Try to breathe in and out through your nose while doing the following exercises. Focus on the breath and the body movements and passively disregard any intrusive thoughts. 2. Leg stretch: Inhale as you bend the left knee, drawing it in toward the chest. Wrap your arms around your left leg as you pull the thigh in toward the chest. Exhale as you stretch the leg straight. Repeat 3 - 5 times then switch to the right leg.

From - Yoga Stretches

YOGA IN A NUTSHELL - Part 3

2010-01-12T04:16:00.000-08:00

Sayings Of Siva

Nitya Sukha and Parama Santi can be had only in God. God is in your heart. He is in you and you are in Him. Just feel His Presence. Through Bhranti caused by the mind, pain is mistaken for pleasure. Everyone in this world runs after pleasure and tries to get rid of pain. Sensual enjoyment is attended with various defects.

Maya binds people through affection, love, tenderness, respect, present, etc. Human love is selfish and hypocritical. As everything is unreal in this world, treat love and respect as poison. Live alone and enjoy the Atmic Bliss in your heart.

Only the man who is spiritually thirsty will drink the Nectar of Immortality. In the presence of sensual pleasures, Atmic Bliss cannot be had. There is no way of overhauling the vicious, worldly persons other than the personal contact of a Guru. Work is a help for beginners and hindrance for advanced persons in meditation. Mind is only a bundle of Samskaras, ideas, habits, impulses, thoughts and emotions. Many have fallen from Yoga by the influence of subtle desires.

The most difficult thing in this world is concentration. Mental purity is of paramount importance for Self-realisation. Memory of the past retards an aspirant’s spiritual advancement. A gross mind with selfishness and lust is absolutely unfit for a spiritual life. Conversations On Yoga

Q. What will give peace of mind to those who are materially poor.

A. Peace of mind for one and all can be had only by realising God. One should not identify himself with the perishable body, but should feel that he is Atman. Then and then alone, he will have Parama Santi.

Q. What is the right way of praying to God and how far is it possible for an ordinary man to
pray like that?

A. The main thing to be looked to while praying to the Lord is one’s mental Bhava. There should be no selfish motive. Pray to God for purity, devotion, light and knowledge. You will get these things. Pray in any way you like. Become as simple as a child. Open freely the chambers of your heart. Have no cunningness. Every man can and should adopt this attitude.

Q. What is the real aim of education?

A. Education should teach the pupils to love God and man. Education should instruct the students, to be truthful, morally sound, fearless, humble, and merciful. Education should teach the students to practise right conduct, right thinking, right living, right action, self-sacrifice and to attain knowledge of the Self. The main purpose of education must be to make man a realMANwith all divine attributes.

Q. What is expected from a teacher in the Elementary School?

A. A teacher is expected to impart real education to the students, as mentioned in the answer above.

Q. Do you really believe that unless I leave my wife and children I will never obtain Mukti?

A. Celibacy is a great desideratum for the path of Yoga. Though it is in no way necessary for you to abandon home, wife and children, yet you would be well advised to reduce all carnal relationship with your partner to the minimum. Married life, if lived in a perfect ideal manner, is no bar to the attainment of Mukti. Mukti is a question of sincere, earnest Sadhana and the Grace of the Lord.

From - Yoga in Daily Life

YOGA IN A NUTSHELL - Part 2

2010-01-12T04:04:00.000-08:00

21. Be cheerful always. Give up worries.
22. Be indifferent to things that do not concern you.
23. Fly away from company and discussion.
24. Be alone for a few hours daily.
25. Give up greediness, jealousy and hoarding.
26. Control your emotions by discrimination and Vairagya.
27. Maintain equilibrium of mind always.
28. Think twice before you speak and thrice before you act.
29. Give up backbiting, criticising and faultfinding. Beware of reaction.
30. Find out your own faults and weaknesses. See only good in others.
31. Forgive and forget the harm done by others. Do good to those who hate you.
32. Shun lust, anger, egoism, Moha and Lobha as a venomous cobra.
33. Be prepared to suffer any amount of pain.
34. Have a set of maxims always with you to induce Vairagya.
35. Treat sensual enjoyment as poison, vomited food, Vishta or urine. They cannot give you
satisfaction.
36. Preserve your Veerya carefully. Sleep always separately.
37. Revere ladies as Mother Divine. Root out the sex idea. Prostrate before all.
38. See good in every face, in everything.
39. Take to Sankirtan, Satsanga, prayer when the mind is overpowered by lower instincts.
40. Face obstacles coolly and boldly.
41. Care not for criticism when you are in the path. Yield not to flattery.
42. Respect rogues and scoundrels. Serve them.
43. Admit your faults openly.
44. Take care of your health. Do not neglect daily Asanas and exercises.
45. Be active and nimble always.
46. Develop your heart by giving. Be extraordinarily charitable. Give more than one’s
expectations.
47. Desires multiply misery. Develop contentment.
48. Control the senses one by one.
49. Develop Brahmakara Vritti by repeated thinking.
50. Have a check over all your thoughts. Keep them pure and sublime.
51. Do not lose temper when anybody insults, taunts or rebukes you. It is a mere play of
words and a variety of sound.
52. Rest your mind in God and live in Truth.
53. Be up and doing in the path of perfection.
54. Have a definite aim in your life and proceed cautiously.
55. Benefits of Mouna are incalculable. Never give up this practice.
56. Four important gates for passion to enter the mind are sound, touch, sight and thoughts.
Be vigilant!
57. Have intimate connection with none but God. Mix little with others.
58. Be moderate in everything. Extremes are always dangerous.
59. Everyday have self-analysis and introspection. Know the amount of your growth.
60. Give up curiosities in spiritual path. Conserve your energy and concentrate. Think little
of food, body and relatives. Think more of Atman. You must realise in this very birth itself!

From - Yoga in daily life

YOGA IN A NUTSHELL - Part 1

2010-01-12T03:55:00.000-08:00

The Salt of life is selfless service. The bread of life is universal love. The water of life is purity. The sweetness of life is devotion. The fragrance of life is generosity. The pivot of life is meditation. The goal of life is Self-realisation. Therefore, serve. Love. Be pure and generous.

Meditate and realise. Spiritual Lessons If one can always remember that God is watching all his thoughts, he will do very few evil actions. He will realise God quickly. But he forgets this point owing to force of Maya or Avidya.

But a Viveki who has got the power of discrimination remembers this on account of the descent of God’s grace (Anugraha) and marches on the spiritual path with bold, steady and quick steps. The descent of the Divine grace is due to countless virtuous actions done by him with Nishkama Bhava during several births.

This world is as unreal as a shadow, bubble or froth. Why do you run after wealth, woman
and the toys of name and fame? Some Bhaktas think that they have made a complete self-surrender. But they have their own ways sometimes and cherish some desires. They walk in their own egoistic ways. This surrender is insincere.

They are not entitled to the descent of Divine Grace. No one is always praised. No one is also always censured. Also there is no one on earth who is not blamed. Therefore, do not bother about praise or censure. Rise above censure and praise and identify yourself with the Absolute, the Glory of glories, the Holy of holies, the Light of lights, the Sun of suns, Atman or Supreme Self. The body is the source of all pains. Hunger is the worst of all diseases. There is no fire like lust. Santosha (contentment) is the best of all virtues.

Guide To Sadhakas

1. Reduce your wants to the barest minimum.
2. Adapt yourself to circumstances.
3. Never be attached to anything or anybody.
4. Share what you have with others.
5. Be ever ready to serve. Lose no opportunity. Serve with Atma Bhava.
6. Entertain Akarta and Sakshi Bhava.
7. Speak measured and sweet words.
8. Have a burning thirst for God-realisation.
9. Renounce all your belongings and surrender yourself unto God.
10. Spiritual path is a sharp-edged razor path. A Guru is absolutely necessary.
11. Have great patience and perseverance.
12. Never leave the Abhyasa even for a day.
13. The Guru will only guide you. You should yourself tread the path.
14. Life is short. Time of death is uncertain. Apply yourself seriously to Yogic Sadhana.
15. Maintain daily spiritual diary and record correctly your progress and failures. Stick to
resolves.
16. Do not complain that there is no time for Sadhana. Reduce sleep and tall talks. Stick to
meditation in Brahmamuhurta.
17. Let the thought of God (Reality) keep away the thought of the world.
18. Forget the feeling that you are so and so—a male or a female—by vigorous
Brahma-chintana.
19. Never postpone a thing for tomorrow if it is possible for you to do it today.
20. Do not boast or make a show of your abilities. Be simple and humble.

From - Yoga from daily life

JNANA YOGA - Part 3

2010-01-11T03:54:00.000-08:00

Out of evil good often cometh. If there is a heavy torrent of rain at the time of a harvest, people consider this as evil. But God knows what is good for His children. He has brought this rain to wash off the earth the germs, which produce severe diseases. Had it not been for this rain, there would have been a severe type of pandemic, infectious diseases which could have swept away the whole population in the twinkling of an eye. Mark here. O friends, the merciful nature of the Lord! Do not try to probe into the Divine mysteries. It will baffle your poor intellect. Then again, what about a war? It is no doubt an evil. But good often cometh out of war. A war cannot break out without the sanction of the Lord. It is He, who goads the minds of the Minister, the King, the Dictator, the President and the Commander-in-chief to wage war. It is war that produces chivalrous warriors, fearless soldiers, undaunted and intrepid statesmen. War makes a man fearless.

Fearlessness is a great qualification for a spiritual aspirant. On account of passion, there is an increase in the population. The supply of foodstuff is not sufficient to meet the demands of the people. War removes the extra population and prevents the outbreak of a severe famine. War brings down to dust the pride of a ruling power. War creates mercy, generosity and cosmic love, in the hearts of rich persons who are misers; and forces them to donate to the helpless widows, orphans and the wounded persons.

The world or society must evolve through evil. Understand His mysterious ways and become wise. Unity And Diversity Though you see variegated forms with different shades of colours, yet there is a definite unity behind them. A philosopher or serious thinker is struck with wonder. He has a different, sensitive pair of eyes to behold the mysterious universe of sounds and colours. He feels and sees unity everywhere. For a scientist the world is a mass of electrons or force or energy. For a student of Kanada’s school of thought, the world is a bundle of atoms, anu and paramanu. For a psychologist the world is all mind only. For a Vijnanavadin it is a mere idea. For a Vedantin this world is nothing but Brahman or Atman. All objects are the products of the five elements. The five elements are reducible to one element, Akasa. Earth is gross form of water. Earth gets dissolved or involved in water. Water is gross form of fire. Water gets involved in fire.

Water comes out of fire. When you feel intense heat, you get profuse perspiration. Fire is gross form of Vayu. There is heat when there is motion of Vayu. Fire gets involved in Air. Vayu is gross form of Akasa. Vayu is reduced into the Akasa. This whole world is projected out of one element Akasa only. Then again all energies such as electricity, magnetism, etc., can be reduced to one energy—Prana. They get involved in the Cosmic Prana (Hiranyagarbha). All minds can be reduced to one cosmic mind.

Though expressed in different languages, the thought-image is one only. The thought-image for water or Apas or Pani or Jal is one. Cows have different colours. But the colour of milk is one. There are different kinds of roses; but the scent is one. The eyes, ears, tongues are different but the power of sight, hearing and taste is one. The feeling of sincerity is one though nations are different. When mercy, love, friendship, feeling of brotherhood operate, all are united at heart. There is oneness everywhere.

There is only one language, the language of the heart. There is only one Dharma, viz., Sanatana Dharma. There is only one Law—the Law of Cause and Effect. There is only one religion—the religion of love or the religion of Vedanta. There is only one sun, one moon, one Akasa, one Brahman, one Atman, one Purushottama, one Chaitanya. Feel the oneness everywhere. Realise the Satchidananda Atman, the common thread of consciousness that links all these names and forms. All diversities, all differences, all qualities, which are Mayaic or mental creations will now totally vanish.

You will now recognise, feel and realise the Truth of Upanishadic utterances of sages, “Aham Brahma Asmi. I amBrahman. Sarvam Khalvidam Brahma. All is Brahman. Atmaiva Idam—all is Atman. All is OM only.” Unity is eternal life. Diversity is death. Unity brings concord, harmony, supreme peace. Diversity brings discord, disharmony and restlessness. Unity is Divine life in spirit. Diversity is Asuric life in matter.

May unity be our centre, ideal and goal! May we all attempt in right earnest to secure an immortal life of supreme joy in Advaitic unity of consciousness! May that Brahman of Upanishads guide us, enlighten the path of unity and remove the obstacles in the path of our realisation of the oneness! May the blessings of Brahman be upon us all! May we all endeavour to bring about unity amongst mankind!

From Yoga in Daily Life

JNANA YOGA - Part 2

2010-01-11T03:21:00.000-08:00

(c) Nothing belongs to me (Whenever anybody dies in your house, whenever you lose anything, repeat this formula several times daily.You will have real peace of mind).
(d) I amnot the body (I am distinct from body). I amnot the mind (I am distinct from the mind). I am not Prana (I am distinct from Prana). I am not Indriyas (I am distinct from Indriyas). I am Immortal Atman. (Body idea will disappear).
(e) I am Sakshi OM OM OM I am Sakshi of mind OM OM OM I am Akarta OM OM OM I am Asanga OM OM OM
(f) I am Immortal Atman OM OM OM
(g) I am Satchidananda Brahman OM OM OM (h) I am Brahman OM OM OM Those who meditate on the above ideas and formulae will become changed. They will become veritable Gods on earth, radiating joy and peace everywhere. After doing some practice, stick to one idea only. This one idea will die by itself when you get established in Brahman, in pure Nirvikalpa Samadhi. Take any triplet which you like best and meditate on that seriously in right earnest. 4. Meditate on the following. Feel and identify yourself with the whole world. Formulae for Meditation

(a) The whole world is my body.
(b) The whole world is my home.
(c) I suffer and enjoy in all bodies.
(d) I work through all hands.
(e) I eat through all tongues.
(f) I see through all eyes.
(g) I hear through all ears.

This will result in Cosmic Consciousness and oneness of life. All sorts of Ghrina, hatred, envy, jealousy, will vanish. You will become one with the Virat and Hiranyagarbha. 5. Meditate on these ideas:
(a) All is good.
(b) All is sacred.
(c) All is one.
(d) All is God (Brahman).
(e) All bodies are mine.

6. Positive Nirguna Meditation
(a) I am the All.
(b) I am all-in-all.
(c) I am the Immortal Self in all. Feel this. Feel this. Vedantic Assertions (For Self-Realisation) 1. Enquire “Who am I?”
2. Find out the “Seer” of sight.
3. Thou art neither body nor mind, O Sushil! Thou art the Immortal Atman. Feel this. Feel this.
4. Deny body, deny world. Assert. Recognise. Realise. “I am the living Truth. I am the living Reality. I am Satchidananda Brahman. “Aham Brahma Asmi”—“I am the Immortal Self.” 5. Roar: OM OM OM, Soham, Soham, Soham Sivoham, Sivoham, Sivoham, like a lion of Vedanta and come out of this cage of flesh, my dear Sushil, “Tat Tvam Asi!” Soham Dhyana Soham andOMare one and the same. Soham Dhyana is Nirguna, Nirakara meditation only. Soham means “I am he” This is associated with the breath. Repeat “So” when you inhale and “Ham” when you exhale. This is easy for some. This is known as ‘Ajapa Japa’. Feel that you are the all-pervading pure consciousness when you think of Soham.

The source for this breath is Brahman or Atman. You are identical with that source and reality. 33 JNANA YOGA Problem Of Good And Evil The universe contains two dynamic forces, viz., good and evil. Good and evil are twin forces. They are twin born of the same father. They are “Dvandvas” or pairs of opposites. They have no independent existence. Evil exists to glorify good. Evil is destructive force. Good is constructive force.

There is neither absolute good nor absolute evil in this universe. Evil has no independent existence apart from good. Wherever there is evil, there is good; wherever there is good, there is evil. You cannot expect absolute good in this relative world. You can find absolute good in Brahman alone. From the viewpoint of the basic Reality which lies at the back of evil and good, evil and good dwindle into an airy nothing. Evil and good are mental creations. Transcend good and evil and reach the abode of Supreme Peace and Immortality. For a Jnani who has knowledge of the Self, there is neither good nor evil.

The ‘Why’ of the evil can only be understood when you get Atma-Jnana. Do not rack your brain now. It is a transcendental mystery. Only Brahman knows. Finite intellect that is conditioned in time, space and causation cannot find out a solution for this problem of evil. When you are fully established in your Svarupa (Atma Nishta) evil and good vanish altogether.

Do not put the cart before the horse. Transmute evil into good by changing your mental attitude or angle of vision. Out of evil, good often cometh. Destruction is necessary for regeneration, renovation and reconstruction. Will a patient with intense type of appendicular colic try to find out the ingredients of a pill, when the doctor gives him a medicine? Will he not take the pill immediately? Will a man whose cloth is on fire try to find out the “why” and “how” of the fire? Will he not run towards water for cooling himself? Tamas is evil. Sattva is good.

Convert Tamas into Sattva. Then evil is transmuted into good. Selfishness is evil. Selflessness is good. Lust is an evil. Brahmacharya is good. Greed is evil. Generosity, integrity, disinterestedness are good. Pride is evil. Humility is good.

From Yoga in Daily Life

JNANA YOGA - Part 1

2010-01-11T03:05:00.000-08:00

Moksha is the summum bonum of life. It is freedom from births and deaths. It is not annihilation. It is annihilation of this little “I.” It is obtained through Knowledge of the Self. You will have to know the truth through direct intuitive experience.

You will have to cut asunder the veil of ignorance by meditation on the Self. Then you will shine in your pristine purity and Divine glory. Assert The Majesty Of Your Real Self You are not the little self, Mr. John Murray. You are not Miss. X.Y. Banerjee. You are not Mr. S.R. Iyer. You are not Mrs. A.M. Iyengar. Endeavour to remove this body idea. Attempt to eliminate this sex idea. You are neither a male nor a female.Transmute the sex energy or reproductive energy into spiritual energy or Ojas Sakti by pious thoughts, constant Satsanga, ceaseless Atmic enquiry, study of Atma Jnana books, mental drill and meditation. Remember always, “I am. I exist. I am a centre of consciousness in the ocean of life. I am a centre of thought, influence and power.” Courage, power, strength, wisdom and joy are your divine heritage, your birthright from the Absolute. Develop your will-power. Will has made intellectual and spiritual giants.

You are equal to any and every man. You have emanated from the same source. You are an expression of the same one life, one Existence, one Sat, one Reality. You are the real “I”, the real Atman. You are immortal. You can hardly be destroyed. You are invincible. You can by no means be injured. Belief in this sense-world alone is death. Your real nature is Satchidananda, immortality and bliss. The Seer of Self sees not death nor disease nor sorrow. The Seer sees all as his own Self. He pervades all.

He knows everything. He is all-powerful. What Is Atman? Atman or Brahman is Existence Absolute, Knowledge Absolute, Bliss Absolute. It is different from the gross, subtle and causal bodies. It transcends the five sheaths (Pancha Koshas). It is the witness of the three states: waking, dreaming and deep sleep. It is the support of the twenty-four Tattvas. It is distinct from Jiva and Ishvara who are associated with Avidya and Maya respectively. The Self appears to be finite on account of Avidya. But when the ignorance is dispelled, that one Atman shines by its own light, like the sun when clouds are dispelled.

This Samsara which is filled with love, hatred, etc., is really like a dream. It appears to be all real, so long as one is involved in it, but when one awakes by acquiring true knowledge, it becomes unreal. Just as bubbles rise from, exist and dissolve in the water, so also the Supreme Lord who is the material cause for everything, the pure Atman, by the contact with the five sheaths, etc., appears to put on their respective qualities. Just as we attribute blue colour to the sky, so also we attribute on account of indiscrimination, the qualities and activities of the body and the organs to the pure, Satchidananda Atman.

Passion, desires, happiness, misery, etc., exercise their functions only during waking and dreaming states when the intellect is present and are not present in the deep sleep, when intellect is absent. They, therefore, belong to the intellect and not to the Pure Nirvikara Atman. Egoism and the idea “I know” crop up by indiscriminately mixing up the Satchidananda aspect of Atman with the functions of Buddhi. Vedantic Sadhana Abeginner in Vedanta should study Atma-Bodha, Tattva-Bodha, Laghu Vasudeva-Manana and Vivekachudamani. English translations are available.

He should have a comprehensive understanding of the Vedantic Prakriyas. He should have an intelligent grasp of the three bodies, the five sheaths and their Dharmas or functions, and the three states of consciousness, viz., Jagrat, Svapna and Sushupti. He should know the various Yuktis such as Anvaya Vyatireka, Adhyaropa-apavada, Neti-neti, Laya Chintana, Bhaga-Tyaga Lakshana, etc.

He should have a clear knowledge of Vivarta Vada, Advaita Vada, Drishti-Srishti Vada, Sva-Prakash-Vada and Ajati Vada. An advanced student should study Upanishads, Brahma Sutras, Panchadasi, Vichara Sagar, Naishkarma Siddhi, Chit Sukhi Khandana Khadhyam, Advaita Siddhi, the monumental works on Vedanta. Advanced books should be read under a Brahma-Srotri, Brahma-nishta. He should repeat mentally Pranava (OM) at least 21,600 times daily. He should start his Sadhana, Japa and Nirakara meditation early in the morning at 4 a.m. He should possess the four means of salvation. Meditation 1.

Meditate on the all-pervading air, ether, light, expansive sky, expansive ocean in the beginning to render the mind subtle and fit for abstract meditation. 2. Meditate on abstract virtues, viz., mercy, generosity, magnanimity, courage, patience, peace, balance, poise, etc. Possess these virtues also to the maximum degree. Become an embodiment of these virtues. Have the mental image ‘Om Courage, Om Mercy.’ Repeat these formulae several times daily. 3. Meditate on the following. Take up one formula every month. Repeat the formula several times daily. Vedantic Formulae (a) Nothing exists (names and forms). (b) The world is a long dream.

From Yoga in Daily Life

BHAKTI YOGA - Part 7

2010-01-06T01:31:00.000-08:00

In the west the woman is wife. In India the woman is the mother. Mother is worshipped. Mother is considered as the Goddess Lakshmi of the house. The Srutis emphatically declare, “Let thy mother be thy God.” The late Ashutosh Mukherji, Vice-Chancellor of the Calcutta University used to wash the feet of his mother and drink the water before he went to his office. This water is called ‘Charanamrit’.

It is a great purifier of the heart. In the West the wife governs the home. In an Indian home the mother rules. In the West the mother has to be subordinate to the wife. In India the wife has to be subordinate to the mother. If woman be pure she can save and purify man. Woman can purify the race. Woman can make a home a sacred temple.

The Hindu women have been the custodians of the Hindu race. The Hindu religion, the Hindu culture and civilisation still survive in spite of the many foreign invasions, when other civilisations have come and gone, on account of the purity of the Hindu women. The women are taught to regard chastity as their most priceless possession, and the loss of it as equal to the eternal damnation of their souls. Religion is ingrained in the Hindu women from their very childhood. Hindu women illumine and enliven the house through the glory of their purity. This is the secret of the endurance of the Hindu religion, civilisation and culture.
Advice To Householders

Start that pure life of a Yogi the very day on which you read these lines. No leniency to mind. Self-reliance is indispensably requisite. You can get suggestions from outside. But you will have to tread the path yourself, to place each step yourself in the spiritual ladder. You will have to train your wife also. She also will have to do rigid Sadhana. Mere gossiping will not do. If she serves the husband nicely and takes care of his body with the right mental attitude and gives him the wants of the flesh, food and drinks as soon as he comes down from meditation, she can have Self-realisation in and through the form of her husband alone, like Laila in Majnu, Savitri in Satyavan, Anasuya in Atri.

That house is a miserable place, veritable hell on earth wherein the husband moves up in spirituality and the wife pulls him down in sensual grooves and vice versa. They should be harmoniously blended or joined by the thread of the knowledge of the Self, each aspiring eagerly for attaining God-consciousness. That house is really a Vaikuntha where the husband and wife lead an ideal Divine Life, singing Hari’s Name, repeating His Mantra 200 Malas daily, studying the Ramayana and the Bhagavata, controlling the Indriyas and serving Bhaktas and Sannyasins.

Renunciation is mental. Renunciation brings peace. There is no loss in renunciation. You renounce the illusory sense pleasure to get the Supreme, Eternal Bliss and Immortality. Bear this in mind. Do not be guided and influenced by public opinion. March boldly and cheerfully in the path of Truth, consulting your inner conscience and hearing the inner, small, shrill, sweet voice of the soul. Do not be hasty in doing any outward renunciation. The world is the best teacher. Unfold the Divinity by remaining in the world alone. Nivritti Marga is extremely difficult. Ninety per cent fail
in this path.
Save as much money as possible. Do 200 Malas of Japa. Cut off society. Keep company with one Sattvic man. Spend every second profitably. Serve sick people. Share what you have a small portion with poor people. May the Divine Glory shine in your face!
Nil Desperandum

(Cheer up yourself—never despair) Sin is a mistake committed by the ignorant Jiva during his journey towards Sat-Chit-Ananda abode. Once you make up your mind to tread the path of truth all sins will be destroyed. Lord Krishna gives His assurance: “Even if the most sinful worship Me, with undivided heart, he too must be accounted righteous for he hath rightly resolved. Speedily he becometh dutiful and goeth to eternal peace. Know thou for certain that My devotee never perisheth.” The repetition of even ulta-nam (reverse name) of Rama Mantra, transmuted rogue Ratnakar into a sage Valmiki.

When such is the power of the inverse name (Mara, Mara), what to speak of the glory of repeating Rama, Rama with Bhava from the bottom of the heart! Ajamila who was in a degraded and abject state on account of his bad character attained Mukti by repeating ‘Narayana’ once in his death-bed by calling his son by his name Narayana. Licentious Vemanna of Andhra Desa became a full-blown Yogi by his devotion to mother Kali.

Grieve not, my dear friends. Fear not. Stand up. Gird up the loins. Fight with the Indriyas and Vasanas. Become a Yogi. Forget the past. A glorious, brilliant future is awaiting you. Cheer up yourself. Purify. Concentrate. Do Japa and Kirtan. Meditate. Realise the Sat-Chit-Ananda Atman!

From - Yoga in Daily Life

BHAKTI YOGA - Part 6

2010-01-06T01:19:00.000-08:00

The eternal fidelity of a Hindu woman to her husband makes her an ideal of the feminine world. It makes her sublime and lofty. This sublime virtue still runs deep in the heart of hearts of every Hindu woman of India superior to any of the other countries in national integrity and honour. The inspiring force of the home is woman.

The home is the origin and the beginning of every form of social organisation. It is the nursery of the nation. It is the sweet place or centre wherein children are trained for future citizenship. The woman illumines the home through the glory of motherhood. Man is incapable of doing the domestic duties incident upon the rearing up of the children.

Good habits, right conduct, formation of character are created in children spontaneously in a well-regulated home under the personal influence of the mother. The loving kindness and the cultured gentleness of the mother help the children to unfold their native talents and dormant capacities quickly. Children absorb ideas by suggestion and imitation. Early training and impressions are lasting formation of character can be done by efficiently by mothers at home. Therefore, home is the beautiful training ground for the building up of character in children under the personal guidance of the mother.

Women are the backbone or bedrock or the basis for sustaining religion and national strength and prosperity. There is no difference between her and Lakshmi, the Goddess of Beauty, Grace and Prosperity. Manu says, “That woman who does always good, who is efficient in work, sweet in speech, devoted to her Dharmas and service to her husband, is really no human being but a Goddess.” If the mother trains her children on the right lines she is rendering a great service indeed to the nation and the national culture.

Women have got ample opportunities to improve and increase the national health and prosperity. They really build the nation. They can utilise their talents and abilities in making the home the cradle of culture character, personal ability and religious upheaval. It is therefore wrong to say that their life is cramped or stunted by attending to the duties at home and that no scope is given for evolution and freedom. This is a sad mistake indeed! The life of a woman is as noble and serious as that of a man.

There is no doubt of this. It is the women that keep up the life and happiness of the home through their smile, tender affection, sweet speech, charming personality, grace and angelic presence. The home will be a real void without them. It will lose its peculiar charm and beauty without their presence. It will be of great benefit to know what the Great Ones have said about the ideal of conduct and deportment that a woman should try to live up to. Sri Rama instructs Kausalya, his mother, as follows: “To a woman so long as she is alive, the husband is indeed the Lord and God. That woman, who, though noblest of all and given to the practice of vows and fasts, does not look after her husband, will indeed obtain an unmeritorious future. Even if a woman has never bowed to the Gods and has ceased to worship them, she obtains the highest heaven by serving her husband.

A woman should be absorbed in the service of her husband, taking delight in his pleasure and his good. This is the path of the Dharma, known for long ages, revealed in the Vedas, and remembered by the world. There is nothing more cruel for a woman than to desert her husband. To attend upon and to serve one’s husband is no doubt the highest duty of a woman. So long as a woman lives, her husband is her only master.” Then again there is Kanva Rishi’s advice to Sakuntala on the eve of her departure from his Ashram to King Dushyanta’s residence. Kanva Rishi says: “Sakuntala! Serve all your elders.

Though your Lord is angry with you at times, do not go against his wishes. Do not be too much attached in enjoyment. Treat your dependants and co-wives with motherly affection and tenderness. Be an affectionate companion to your sisters-in-law. Be obedient to your mother-in-law. These attributes will make you the true mistress of the house. Otherwise, you will give pain and trouble to the whole family.” It is the duty of the lady of the house to get up before her husband in the early hours of the dawn, take her bath and perform the household work. Tiruvalluvar’s wife shampooed the feet of her husband, slept after her husband and rose up in the morning before he got up from bed. She is regarded as a model woman.

To a lady the husband is indeed the highest ornament of all ornaments. Being separated from him, she, however beautiful, does not shine. The Hindu scriptures say that the wife must be very obedient and that the husband is God to her. Some ignorant persons take advantage of this and exercise undue authority over their wives and keep them under extreme subordination. Is this not a sad mistake? Woman is in no way inferior to man. The home is a co-operative organisation. It flourishes on the principle of division of labour.

The husband should not think that he is superior to his wife, simply because he is the earning member of the family. Women have a definite field of their own. They are mothers of the house. The extraordinary abilities and intellectual attainments, and the magnetic personality of the modern women are a standing monument to their undoubted equality with men. The personal influence of women at home is essential to unify the various interests of the family. It is women alone who can rear and nurse children. Hindu wives are queens in their own homes. The husbands should treat their wives with intense love and respect.

They should be regarded as equals in all respects and be held in the light of partners in life. Manu says, “The householder should first serve his relatives and dependants with food and then take the remaining food along with his wife,” hinting thereby at the position of equal footing on which she is to be treated. If a man earns and the wife stays at home, it does not mean that the woman is a parasite and a slave. She is indeed the builder of the nation. Verily, women exercise an authority over their husbands through their love, tenderness, affection, grace, beauty, selfless service and fidelity, purity and self-abnegation.

From - Yoga in Daily life

BHAKTI YOGA - Part 5

2010-01-06T00:46:00.000-08:00

Here is an Anushthana for 40 days. You will have to do Japa of Rama Mantra one Lakh and twenty five thousand times in the following manner for 40 days, at the rate of 3000 daily. During the last five days do 4000 daily. Get up at 4. a.m. Write down in a thin paper ‘Rama, Rama’ 300 times.

Then cut it into small pieces. Each piece will contain one Rama Nama. Then roll it with a small ball of Atta (wheat flour paste). Writing will take two or three hours according to your strength and capacity. Then you will have to cut one by one. You will have to do the whole process by sitting on one Asana. If you find it difficult to sit on one Asana, you can have change of Asana. But you should not leave your seat. Some use a special ink made of saffron, musk, camphor, etc., and special writing pen made up of a sharp-pointed thin, Tulasi-stick.

You can use ordinary ink and pen if you cannot get the above special ink and special pen. You will have to do the Anushthana on the banks of Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Kaveri or Narmada, at Rishikesh, Benares, Hardwar, or Prayag. You can do it at home, if you find it difficult to move to these places. Take milk and fruits and Palahar during these days. Two Punjabis, a student of law, and his father, are having this Anushthana in Rishikesh. Throw the balls in the Ganga or any river for fishes. You will develop wonderful patience. You will get Divine Grace. Study the whole of the Ramayana 108 times with purity and concentration. This can be done within three years if you can devote three hours daily. You can go through the book three times in a month. You will acquire Siddhis.

You will have Darshan of Lord Rama. Bhakti Yoga and Jnana Yoga are not incompatibles like acids and alkalis. One can combine Ananya Bhakti (one-pointed devotion) with Jnana Yoga. The fruit of Bhakti Yoga is Jnana. Highest love (Para Bhakti and Jnana are one. Perfect knowledge is love. Perfect love is knowledge. Sri Sankara, the Advaita Kevala Jnani, was a great Bhakta of Lord Hari, Hara and Devi. Jnana Deva of Alandi, Poona, a great Yogi of late, was a Bhakta of Lord Krishna. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa worshipped Kali and got Jnana through Swami Totapuri, his Advaita Guru.

Lord Chaitanya was a fine Advaita Vedantic Scholar, and yet he danced in streets and market places, singing Hari’s names. Appaya Dikshitar, a famous Jnani of Adaipalam, North Arcot District, Madras, the author of Siddhanta Lesha and various other Vedantic books was a devotee of Lord Siva. It behoves, therefore, that Bhakti can be combined with much advantage with Jnana.

May we hear with our ears and see with our eyes nothing but what is pure, so that with our senses unperturbed, remembering God, meditating on Him, singing His praise and repeating His name, we may attain life as that of the Gods. Om Santi. Kirtan At Home This is an easy way for attaining God-consciousness. At night all the members of the house should sit in a circle and do Kirtan for one hour before the picture of Lord Krishna. The servants of the house also should be included. Sing any Name of the Lord as Siva, Hare Ram, Sita Ram, Raghupati Raghava Rajaram, etc., in a chorus with one Svara, Tala harmoniously.

Nada Brahman will be generated. You will forget the body and the world and enter into ecstatic state. Practise, try and feel yourself. Mere tall talk will not do. Just as the intoxication that you get by taking a dose of opium lasts for hours, the Divine intoxication that you get from Kirtan will last for some hours during the following day also. At night you will be free from bad dreams. During Kirtan a special spiritual wave comes from the indweller of your heart and purifies the mind and Pranamaya Kosha.

All diseases are cured thereby. Doctor’s bills are saved. Sattva flows from the Lord to your mind, just as oil flows from one vessel to another vessel. Kirtan gives you strength to face the difficulties in the battle of life. Singing the Names of the Lord is a mental tonic. Evening Katha At Home In the evening four people can join together and read regularly the Bhagavad Gita, the Ramayana or the Bhagavata. Svadhyaya or study of holy scriptures is Kriya Yoga. It is of immense benefit for householders who do not find much time for serious spiritual practices and constant meditation. The study itself is a form of meditation. When the mind is concentrated on Divine thoughts, it is filled with purity.

The gross mind is rendered subtle. What Should Ladies Do I want to say a word on the devotional nature of Hindu ladies. In India, religion is maintained by the ladies only. There is peculiar religious instinct in them. Hindu ladies are highly devotional. They infuse the religious spirit in the males through their daily conduct and practical life. They get up in the early morning, wash the house, take bath, do Japa, make a small temple in their house and keep there pictures of the Lord and Pooja vessels, etc. They keep the place sacred and in the evening do Arati and prayer. The atheistic male members of the house are forced to do some prayer or other through their influence, on account of fear.

In reality the ladies of the house govern the house. They are the manifestations of Sakti. The husband is not entitled to do any religious rite without her presence by his side. “Yatra naryastu pujyante ramante tatra devatah, Yatrai tastu na pujyante sarvastatraphalah kriyah” —Manu Smriti III-56. “Where women are honoured, there Devas are pleased; but where they are not honoured, there no sacred rite is fruitful.” Such is the glory of Hindu ladies. My earnest prayer is that they should sing the Name of the Lord in the early morning as soon as they get up.

They should train their children also to sing the Names. The whole house will be charged with spiritual vibrations. Even when they cook and draw water from the wells, they should be singing in mild tone the Names of the Lord. A strong habit of repeating the Names of the Lord will be formed in two months. This itself is quite sufficient for attaining God-consciousness. Singing the Names of the Lord is a very easy method for getting Darshan of the Lord in this Kali-Yuga. Even when anyone dies, the habit of singing the Name of the Lord will come to his rescue.

Duties Of Womanhood

From time immemorial Sita, Savitri, Damayanti, Nalayani, Anasuya and Draupadi have been regarded as sacred ideals of Indian Womanhood. They are sublime and exemplary characters who have exalted womanhood to the height of divine perfection.

Modern women should draw inspiration from their lives and try to tread their path. As long as such characters continue to exercise their influence upon the lives and character of Indian ladies, so long they will be looked upon with admiration and reverence by their sisters of other countries. All of them were subjected to very severe tests in which their purity, courage, patience and other virtues were put to and nobly did they come out through those tests. Hindu women are, since the dawn of the early civilisation, distinguished for their disinterested love and self-abnegation. What a wife is to a Hindu husband is well illustrated by a verse in the Ramayana where Sri

Rama referred to Sita says:
Karyeshu Mantree, Karaneshu Dasee,
Dharmeshu Patnee, Kshamaya Dharitree,
Sneheshu Mata, Sayaneshu Rambha,
Rangecha Sakhi, Lakshmana Sa Priya Me.

“In counsel she is my counsellor, in action she is my servant, in religious performances she is my partner, in tolerance she is like the earth, in affection she is like unto my mother, in bed she is like the celestial Rambha and in play she is my companion. Such indeed, O Lakshmana, is my beloved...” This is the Hindu ideal of a wife.

From - Yoga in Daily Life

BHAKTI YOGA - Part 4

2010-01-06T00:38:00.000-08:00

Mantra For Japa Select any one of the following Mantras. Repeat it with concentration from 10 to 50 Malas from 4 to 6 a.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. regularly, everyday.

Mantras Deities

Om Gam Ganapataye Namah —Ganapati
Om Namassivaya —Lord Siva
Om Namo Narayanaya —Lord Narayana
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya —Lord Krishna
Om Kling Krishnaya Govindaya Gopijana
Vallabhaya Svaha

—Lord Krishna

Om Sri Rama, Jaya Rama, Jaya Jaya Ram —Lord Rama
Om Ram Ramaya Namah —Lord Rama
Hare Rama Hare Rama
Rama Rama Hare Hare
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
—Mahamantra

Jugal Mantra

1. Sita Ram
2. Radheshyam
3. Sri Sita Ramachandrabhyo Namah
Saranagati Mantra
1. Sri Rama Saranam Mama
2. Sri Sita Rama Saranam Mama
3. Sri Ramachandra Saranam Prapadye
4. Sri Krishna Saranam Mama

Bhakti Yoga Sadhana

God is the Inner Ruler of your heart and mind. He is the silent witness of your thoughts. You cannot hide anything from Him. Become guileless and straightforward. Adevotee of Hari is always meek and humble. Name of God “Hari” is always on his lips. He sheds profuse tears when he is alone. He is very pious. He is friendly towards all. He has equal-vision. He does good always. He never hurts the feelings of others. He has a spotless character. He never covets the property of others. He sees Hari in all beings.

Bhakti can move mountains. Nothing is impossible to it. It was the devotion of Mira that converted a snake into a flower garland, poison into nectar and a bed of nails into a bed of roses. It was the devotion of Prahlada that turned fire into ice. A devotee should become an embodiment of goodness. He must be ever ready to do good to living beings. That devotee who is intent upon the welfare of all beings obtains the peace of the Eternal. He who rejoices in the welfare of all, gets the Darshan of the Lord. He develops Advaitic consciousness eventually. Service of Bhagavatas, repetition of God’s name, Satsanga, singing His name, study of the Bhagavata or the Ramayana, living in Brindavan, Pandharpur, Chitrakuta or Ayodhya, are the six means for developing Bhakti.

Anger and lust are the two inner enemies that stand in the way of developing Bhakti. From lust follow the ten vices that are mentioned in Manusamhita—love of hunting, gambling, sleeping by day, slandering, company with bad women, drinking, singing love-songs, vulgar music, dancing, aimlessly wandering about. Anger begets eight kinds of vices. All evil qualities proceed from anger. If you can eradicate anger all bad qualities will die of themselves. The eight vices are: Injustice, rashness, persecution, jealousy, taking possession of others’ property, harsh words and cruelty.

How are Bhaktas to be known? Lord Krishna has given a description of them. You will find it in Bhagavatam. “They do not care for anything. Their hearts are fixed on Me. They are very humble. They have equal vision. They have no attachment towards anybody or anything. They are without ‘mine-ness’. They have no egoism.

They make no distinction between sorrow and happiness. They do not take anything from others. They can bear heat, cold and pain. They have love for all living beings. They have no enemy. They are serene. They possess exemplary character.” Here is a Sadhana for advanced students. This is highly useful for getting quick, solid progress in the spiritual path. Get up at 4 a.m. Start your Japa on any Asana you have mastered. Do not take food or drink for 14 hours. Do not get up from the Asana. Control passing urine till sunset if you can manage. Finish the Japa at sunset.

Take milk and fruits after sunset. Householders can practise this during holidays. Practise this once a fortnight or once a month or once weekly. Here is another Sadhana for 10 days. You can do this during the Christmas holidays or Puja holidays or summer vacation. Shut yourself in an airy room. Do not talk to anybody. Do not see anybody. Do not hear anything. Get up at 4 a.m. Start Japa of the Mantra of your Ishta Devata or your Guru Mantra and finish it at sunset. Then take some milk and fruits or Kheer (milk and rice boiled with sugar). Take rest for one or two hours. But continue the Japa. Then again start the Japa seriously. Retire to bed at 11 in the night.

You can combine meditation along with Japa. Make all arrangements for bath, food, etc., inside the room. Have two rooms if you can manage, one for bath and one for meditation. Repeat this four times a day. This practice can be kept up even for 40 days. You will have wonderful result and various experiences. You will enter into Samadhi. You will have Darshan of your Ishtam. I assure you.

From - Yoga in Daily life

BHAKTI YOGA - Part 3

2010-01-04T22:19:00.000-08:00

Upamsu brings fruits thousand times more than that of Vaikhari. Manasika brings fruits crores of times than Vaikhari. Mind wants varieties, new sensations. It gets disgusted with monotony. Just as you want brinjal vegetable today, Lauki tomorrow and Parwal day after tomorrow, the mind wants varieties in Japa also; otherwise it becomes dull. It refuses to work. Do Vaikhari for some time, then Upamsu for some time and then Manasika for some time.

The repetition of a Mantra serves as a gate-keeper. When the mind runs away, the repetition of the Mantra will at once tell you that some other evil-intruding thoughts have entered the mind. Benefits Of Japa There is Mantra Sakti and Mantra Chaitanya in every Mantra. It changes the mental substance from passion to purity, from Rajas into Sattva. It calms, strengthens the mind. It makes the mind Antarmukha, introspective. It checks the outgoing tendencies of the mind. It eradicates all kinds of evil thoughts and inclinations. It destroys Vasanas and reduces the force of thought. Eventually it leads to the direct Darshan of God or Ishta Devata. Japa purifies the mind, induces Vairagya, destroys Vasanas and brings you face to face with God.

Instructions On Japa

Have Suddha, Sattvic Bhava when you repeat the Mantra. Repeat the Mantra at least 21,600 times daily, to correspond with the 21,600 Soham breaths. You must do the Japa regularly. The shorter the Mantra the greater is the concentration. Of all the Mantras, Rama, Rama, Rama is the best. It is easy to repeat also. If you are tired of repeating the Mantra at one stroke, have three or more sittings; from morning 4 to 7, evening 4 to 5 and night 6 to 8. Repeat the Mantra very quickly for some time and when you find that the mind is wandering much then repeat it slowly. The golden rule is to repeat the Mantra neither too slow nor too quick. Observe the happy medium. Everyone of you should have a separate meditation room.

Make a small enclosure in a corner of a room with screen and sit for Japa if you cannot manage to get a separate room. Do not allow anybody to frequent the place. Both morning and night sit there regularly for 10 minutes. Gradually increase the time as much as you can. This is very, very important. In this Kali Yuga when rigid Hatha Yoga Kriyas are difficult to be performed owing to poor physique of people and when people do not possess sharp intellect and power of inflection and ratiocination, Japa and Kirtan are easy methods for Self-realisation. Ram Prasad of Bengal had Darshan of Mother Kali through Kirtan alone. “Na-aham vasami Vaikunthe yoginam hridaye na cha, mad bhakta yatra gayanti tatra tishthami Narada—I dwell not in Vaikuntha, nor in the hearts of Yogins; but I dwell there where my Bhaktas sing of Me, O Narada!” Upamsu brings fruits thousand times more than that of Vaikhari. Manasika brings fruits crores of times than Vaikhari. Mind wants varieties, new sensations. It gets disgusted with monotony. Just as you want brinjal vegetable today, Lauki tomorrow and Parwal day after tomorrow, the mind wants varieties in Japa also; otherwise it becomes dull. It refuses to work.

Do Vaikhari for some time, then Upamsu for some time and then Manasika for some time. The repetition of a Mantra serves as a gate-keeper. When the mind runs away, the repetition of the Mantra will at once tell you that some other evil-intruding thoughts have entered the mind. Benefits Of Japa There is Mantra Sakti and Mantra Chaitanya in every Mantra. It changes the mental substance from passion to purity, from Rajas into Sattva. It calms, strengthens the mind. It makes the mind Antarmukha, introspective. It checks the outgoing tendencies of the mind. It eradicates all kinds of evil thoughts and inclinations. It destroys Vasanas and reduces the force of thought. Eventually it leads to the direct Darshan of God or Ishta Devata. Japa purifies the mind, induces Vairagya, destroys Vasanas and brings you face to face with God. Instructions On Japa Have Suddha, Sattvic Bhava when you repeat the Mantra.

Repeat the Mantra at least 21,600 times daily, to correspond with the 21,600 Soham breaths. You must do the Japa regularly. The shorter the Mantra the greater is the concentration. Of all the Mantras, Rama, Rama, Rama is the best. It is easy to repeat also. If you are tired of repeating the Mantra at one stroke, have three or more sittings; from morning 4 to 7, evening 4 to 5 and night 6 to 8. Repeat the Mantra very quickly for some time and when you find that the mind is wandering much then repeat it slowly. The golden rule is to repeat the Mantra neither too slow nor too quick. Observe the happy medium. Everyone of you should have a separate meditation room. Make a small enclosure in a corner of a room with screen and sit for Japa if you cannot manage to get a separate room. Do not allow anybody to frequent the place. Both morning and night sit there regularly for 10 minutes.

Gradually increase the time as much as you can. This is very, very important. In this Kali Yuga when rigid Hatha Yoga Kriyas are difficult to be performed owing to poor physique of people and when people do not possess sharp intellect and power of inflection and ratiocination, Japa and Kirtan are easy methods for Self-realisation. Ram Prasad of Bengal had Darshan of Mother Kali through Kirtan alone.

“Na-aham vasami Vaikunthe yoginam hridaye na cha, mad bhakta yatra gayanti tatra tishthami Narada—I dwell not in Vaikuntha, nor in the hearts of Yogins; but I dwell there where my Bhaktas sing of Me, O Narada!”

From - YogaDaily

BHAKTI YOGA - Part 2

2010-01-04T22:00:00.000-08:00

“Nayamatma pravachanena labhyo na medhaya na bahuna srutena” (Katha Upanishad). Not by arguments, not by extreme intelligence, not by the voracious and wide study of scriptures, will you reach God. You can reach Him by sincere Sadhana or ascetic spiritual practices.

Avoid wrangling and vain quibbling. Make genuine efforts. Mysterious Help From The Lord To Bhaktas O faithless ones! Just hear the life-history of Roopkala Bhagavan of Ayodhya and the soldier-Bhakta of Punjab. Roopkala Bhagavan was a famous Bhakta in Ayodhya. It was he who started the All-India-Kirtan. He died a few years ago. He was a native of Chapra near Benares. He was the Inspector of Schools.

He was a sincere devotee of Sri Rama. One day he was absorbed in meditation. He did not visit a school for inspection. Lord Rama Himself assumed the form of the inspector through his Yoga-Maya-Sakti, inspected the school boys, signed in the register and disappeared. When the inspector came to the school next morning, the teachers said that he was present all along in the school the previous day and showed him his signature in the register. He was very much astonished. This one evidence gave him much encouragement.

He instantaneously resigned his post and went to Ayodhya to spend the rest of his life in communion with Lord Rama. Have you not heard of a recent Punjab incident? A soldier, a sincere Rama-Bhakta, was on patrol duty at night. One night a fine Kirtan-party was moving about quite close to the soldier. The soldier was much moved by deep devotion, left his duty and joined the Kirtan-party.

He enjoyed the Kirtan to his heart’s content. In the depth of higher emotions, he entered into Bhava-Samadhi, the ecstatic state of Bhaktas. When he returned at 6 a.m. he enquired the Subedar-Major whether anything happened during his absence. The Subedar said, “Nothing happened. I saw you always on the patrol duty.” The Bhakta soldier was extremely surprised to hear the statement of the Subedar.

He thought it was all the Grace of Rama. Rama Himself took charge of patrol duty to protect His devotee. He assumed the form of the soldier. When the Bhakta came to know of this incident, he immediately resigned his post and went to Ayodhya to spend his whole life in devotion. My dear brother, do not become a sceptic. If you are sincere in your devotion, you will have Darshan of God face to face this very moment.

What Is Japa?

Japa is the repetition of any Mantra or Name of the Lord. In this Kaliyuga, Japa is an easy way for God-realisation.

Tukaram, Dhruva, Valmiki, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Narsi Mehta, Gauranga, Ramdas, Mira—all had attained salvation by uttering the name of God. Why not you also, my dear friends, my amiable comrades? Japa is an important Anga of Yoga. Any Mantra is powerful. It is a mass of radiant energy. Japa is of three kinds: (1) Vaikhari or verbal with Ucchara. (2) Upamsu with humming sound. (3) Manasika wherein the lips do not move. It is done with the mind and mind alone....

BHAKTI YOGA - Part 1

2010-01-04T21:31:00.000-08:00

Bhakti can be acquired and cultivated. Constant Satsanga with devotees and Bhagavatas, repetition of His Name, Sri Ram, Sita Ram, Hari Om, etc., constant remembrance of the Lord, prayer, study of religious books such as the Ramayana, the Bhagavata, Hari Kirtan, service of Bhaktas, etc., can infuse Bhakti in your heart. Lust, anger, greed, Moha, pride, jealousy, hatred, egoism, desire for power, name and fame, hypocrisy are all obstacles in the way of Bhakti Yoga. Remove lust by entertaining pure thoughts; anger by love, Kshama, etc.; greed by charity, honesty, disinterestedness; Moha by Viveka; pride by humility (Namrata, Vinaya); jealousy by magnanimity, nobility and Mudita; hatred by love; and egoism by unconditioned, unreserved and ungrudging self-surrender to the Lord, Atmanivedana or Saranagati. Pray fervently like Prahlada.

Sing His Name like Radha. Weep in solitude like Mira on account of Viraha Agni. Do Kirtan like Lord Gauranga. Sing Bhajan like Ram Prasad of Bengal. Dance in Divine ecstasy like Chaitanya Maha Prabhu and enter into Bhava Samadhi. Repeat His Name like Valmiki, Tukaram or Ram Das. Be up and doing, my dear friends, in spiritual Sadhana, Bhajan, etc. Never waste a single minute. Wasting time is the highest sin. Lord Rama will surely crown your efforts with success. Combine all the love you cherish towards all worldly objects, wife, son, wealth, property, relatives, friends and then apply this combined love towards God. You will realise in this very second. Repeat His name 200 Malas daily (200x108=21,600 times). Sing His praise. Do Hari Kirtan. Repeat His Stotras and hymns.

Live in Ayodhya, Brindavan, Pandharpur, Mathura for some months. Control the Indriyas. Eat simple food. Wear simple clothing. Lead a simple, natural life. You will develop Bhakti soon. Cultivate Vairagya towards sensual objects. Have Mithya and Dosha Drishti for objects. Objects are unreal, perishable. They are attended with various sorts of pains and miseries. Vairagya will come by itself. Raga for objects is an enemy of Bhakti. Repeat the formulae “I am Thine. All is Thine. Thy Will be done.

” Have perfect self-surrender. Then only you will have Darshan of God. Do not keep any desires for you. Destroy egoism completely. A Bhakta gets Salokya, Sameepya and Sayujya Mukti. He lives near God. He serves God. He enjoys all His Aishvaryas. He gets Krama Mukti. In the end he gets Jnana. Where Is God? Where is God? Is He only in the temples, churches or Musjids? No. Is He only in the four Vedas or Upavedas or six Vedangas or six schools of philosophy or eighteen Puranas or sixty-four sciences? ‘No’.

Is He in the places of pilgrimage or Tirthas alone? No. No. No. Where is He then? “Hridi Sarvasya Tishthitam (Gita XIII-17)—Wisdom, the object of Wisdom, seated in the hearts of all.” He is not very far. He is quite close to you. “Anoraniyan mahato mahian atmasya jantornihato guhayam.” Subtler than the subtlest, greater than the greatest, He is located in the cavity of your heart, in the innermost recesses or chambers, the Hridaya Kamala.

From - YogaDaily

Pranayama :: the serpent power

2009-06-25T05:43:00.000-07:00

Live As You Breathe; Take In and Let Go Swami Rama used to say a person has one thought on inhalation and another on exhalation, so that the rate of breath determines the number of thoughts a person has. Greater number of thoughts (a faster breathing rate) decreases concentration because there are so many thoughts going on. The breath, body and mind are so closely linked, a change in one brings about a change in the other two. By developing control of your breath in certain ways, you can bring beneficial changes to your body and mind. Pranayama acts as a key, it opens the mind, freeing the nervous system of its ordinary patterns and habits. By breathing from the pranayama :: the serpent power padmasana upper third of the respiratory system, pranayama can move blocked pathways to the brain and the nervous system, creating new patterns, roadways to the superhighway of the superconscious. Pranayama revitalizes the body, steadies the emotions, and creates great clarity of mind. Maintain the bandhas during pranayama. Place the mind in the breath. Pranayama, like asana practice, is progressive. You build upon what you’ve already done.
Practice
Pranayama Sit in siddhasana or padmasana. Begin with exhale, retention. We use the example of a water pot. Before you fill it up, you want to bake it until it’s strong, to seal it, especially the bottom of the pot so that it doesn’t leak. This corresponds to the exhale retention, you want to make sure that your pot will hold water before you fill it up. Connect with mula bandha, lifting the pelvic floor and uddiyana bandha, drawing the navel inward and toward the spine. At the top of the pot, you’ll want to have a stopper, so that the water doesn’t spill out. The inhale retention with jalandhara bandha (throat lock) is the stopper. You want to contain and build the prana, life force, with the bandhas, the seals that prevent leakage. With pranayama we are putting the mind in the breath. The idea is to bring the breath up through the sushumna nadi. The exhalation creates stability, grounding. It is the descent of the spirit from the subtle moving into dense movement of energy and down into the perineum. So you’re right in the location for the muladara chakra. If you can learn to follow the movement downward, then you’re there. Same with upward. Opening on the inhale, apana downward. Anchoring on the exhale, prana upward Try to make the period of retention as comfortable as possible. Connect with the base of the spine, creating a straight line from the top of the head to the base of the spine. At first the exhale hold feels very unnatural. You may feel a sense of panic or fear, the emptiness of breath versus the fullness of breath. If you don’t do the bandhas, you won’t be able to do the exhale retention comfortably. Hold the retention as long as you can comfortably, start small and work up from there. A good indicator of capacity is the quality of the subsequent breath. If the inhale is a huge sucking, fast breath, then the exhale hold was too long. You don’t want the breath to have a grasping quality. Pranayama should be soothing for the system.
from : ashtanga yoga manual

Breath Is Life - part 2

2009-05-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

This work will take up the Yogi “Science of Breath,” which includes not only all that is known to the Western physiologist and hygienist, but the occult side of the subject as well. It not only points out the way to physical health along the lines of what Western scientists have termed “deep breathing,” etc., but also goes into the less known phases of the subject, and shows how the Hindu Yogi controls his body, increasing his mental capacity, and develops the spiritual side of his nature by the “Science of Breath.” The Yogi practices exercises by which he attains control of his body, and is enabled to send to any organ or part an increased flow of vital force or “prana,” thereby strengthening and invigorating the part or organ. He knows all that his Western scientific brother knows about the physiological effect of correct breathing,
but he also knows that the air contains more than oxygen and hydrogen and nitrogen, and that something more is accomplished than the mere oxygenating of the blood. He knows something about “prana,” of which his Western brother is ignorant, and he is fully aware of the nature and manner of handling that great principle of energy, and is fully informed as to its effect upon the human body and mind. He knows that by rhythmical breathing one may bring himself into harmonious vibration with nature, and aid in the unfoldment of his latent powers. He knows that by controlled breathing he may not only cure disease in himself and others, but also practically do away with fear and worry and the baser emotions. To teach these things is the object of this work. We will give in a few chapters concise explanations and instructions, which might be extended into volumes. We hope to awaken the minds of the Western world to the value of the Yogi “Science of Breath.”
From - The Hindu Yoga

BREATH IS LIFE - part 1

2009-05-14T22:38:00.000-07:00

Life is absolutely dependent upon the act of breathing. “Breath is Life.” Differ as they may upon details of theory and terminology, the Oriental and the Occidental agree upon these fundamental principles. To breathe is to live, and without breath there is no life. Not only are the higher animals dependent upon breath for life and health, but even the lower forms of animal life must breathe to live, and plant life is likewise dependent upon the air for continued existence. The infant draws in a long, deep breath, retains it for a moment to extract from it its life-giving properties, and then exhales it in a long wail, and lo! its life upon earth has begun. The old man gives a faint gasp, ceases to breathe, and life is over. From the first faint breath of the infant to the last gasp of the dying man, it is one long story of continued breathing. Life is but a series of breaths. Breathing may be considered the most important of all of the functions of the body, for, indeed, all the other functions depend upon it. Man may exist some time without eating; a shorter time without drinking; but without breathing his existence may be measured by a few minutes. And not only is Man dependent upon Breath for life, but he is largely dependent upon correct habits of breathing for continued vitality and freedom from disease. An intelligent control of our breathing power will lengthen our days upon earth by giving us increased vitality and powers of resistance, and, on the other hand, unintelligent and careless breathing will tend to shorten our days, by decreasing our vitality and laying us open to disease.
From - The Hindu Yoga

Prana & the chakras

2009-02-23T22:46:00.000-08:00

Prana
• Jalandhara bandha prevents prana from escaping the upper body.
• Uddiyana bandha forces prana up the shushumna nadi.
• Mula bandha, when engaged, prevents apana escaping from the lower body and draws it up to unite with prana.

the chakras - From bottom to top the 7 chakras:
1. Muladhara chakra - at the anus
2. Svadhishthana chakra - at the genitals
3. Manipura chakra - at the navel
4. Anahata chakra - at the heart
5. Vishuddha chakra - at the throat
6. Ajna chakra- between and behind the eyebrows
7. Sahasrara chakra - at the crown of the head
From :Ashtanga Yoga Manual

Prana

2009-02-23T22:34:00.000-08:00

Prana is a subtle form of energy. Prana literally means “breathing forth” the universal life force. Through practicing asana and pranayama, prana is brought into and stored in the body, increasing vitality. Prana mainly flows through the body in the nadis, or nerve channels of the astral body. Prana exists as a negative energy as well as a positive energy.Prana moves upward and apana moves downward. When the two unite at the muladara chakra (base of spine) kundalini (dormant cosmic energy) is awakened. The most important nadi, or energy channel, (there are 72,000!) is the shushumna nadi which correlates to the spinal cord in the physical body. When kundalini is awakened it starts to move up the shushumna nadi, through the seven chakras toward higher states of consciousness. In ashtanga yoga there are three locks (bandhas) that are engaged throughout the practice to prevent the dissipation of, and direct the flow of prana in the body, and convert it into spiritual energy.
From :Ashtanga Yoga Manual

Yoga Nidra and consciousness...

2009-02-17T22:11:00.000-08:00

Yoga is probably best known as a comfortable form of relaxation, both on a physical and mental level, but it involves a lot more than that. Relaxation is only the first step.
It is easy to practice Yoga Nidra. You lie completely motionless on your back, and listen to the instructions given. The technique is used by people who need an effective relaxation. Many use the Yoga Nidra tape or CD without having any other knowledge of yoga or meditation.
Sometimes a person will come to me and say: "I have tried relaxation and it does not work for me. I just cannot relax." It always turns out that the person has used a form of relaxation, where you have to try to imagine that you relax. So instead of deriving benefit from the relaxation, the person concerned gets irritated and worried from making so much effort.
In Yoga Nidra you are never asked to relax - and my experience is that even those people who have previously experienced problems relaxing, find benefit from Yoga Nidra.
Yoga Nidra is equally popular with school kids and senior citizens, and is highly valued in many work places. For beginners, it is an easy way to experience a state of meditation.
Some years ago I taught at a school for young people. The teachers were very surprised when they saw the boys lying completely still on their backs with their eyes closed for twenty minutes.
You can practice Yoga Nidra anytime you want, to improve your concentration, get better rest and renewed energy - and if you sleep poorly at night, to improve your sleep.
Listen to the instructions without making effort or using your willpower. Just follow the instructions with interest and awareness, and let the rest happen by itself.
In the beginning when you practice Yoga Nidra, you may fall asleep - and that is okay - even though the purpose is to stay awake and aware. If for a moment you don't hear the instructions, you may have an experience like you are deeply asleep - but at the same time you know that you are conscious. Generally falling asleep completely is a transitory stage. Gradually you become increasingly present in the deep state.
When you practice Yoga Nidra, it is best to lie with your head towards the north. Your clothes should not be tight. Do not lie on anything too soft, but preferably on an even floor, maybe on a rug, with a light cover over you. If you are prone to falling asleep, keep your hands and feet uncovered or lie without a cover altogether. If you still fall asleep, then let your elbows rest on the floor with your forearms pointing upwards. Each time you are about to fall asleep, your arms will drop down, and you will wake up.
The essence of Yoga Nidra, as with all kinds of real meditation, is awareness - consciousness resting in itself. During Yoga Nidra thoughts, states and dreams may surface. You may have impressions of experiences and emotions from that day or from earlier times in your life. All this you experience, but you don't cling to any of it - and you don't judge it (after all, you also experience when you judge). You let the impressions and thoughts come and go without trying to control them, and you reach not only a relaxed state, but a state where the mind empties and frees itself of all that it does not need. You let the thoughts flow by and disappear like clouds in the sky, making room for inspiration again.
If for a moment you forget to follow the instructions, then do not try to remember what happened at that particular place in Yoga Nidra; just follow the now. When you get carried away by a thought it may easily turn into a dream that carries you into sleep. Because you are in a deep state, it is quite normal for this to happen. As soon as you discover it, then return to the instructions. In this way you get used to staying aware in a deep state.
Yoga Nidra teaches you to consciously experience the different states that you are guided through, eg. Heaviness and lightness. You learn to give in to the different emotions and states. Your mind is being trained in this way and becomes more flexible - and you reach a state of deep rest.
It is important to have guidance from an experienced teacher in a class or on a tape/CD, especially with the long Yoga Nidra, as the relaxation should preferably be the same each time. In this way the subconscious feels secure and relaxes more easily. When you have gotten used to the short Yoga Nidra, you can then take yourself through the instructions mentally, before you turn to the long and deep Yoga Nidra.
The name Yoga Nidra actually represents a state of consciousness, and the technique leads you there. Both mind and body reach the meditative state. You gain an experience that you can use in other contexts; among other things, it can improve your meditation.
What is most important for all kinds of meditation is regularity, preferably a daily practice. Each time you do it, it will be easier to reach the clarity and peace, which support physical health and your presence in everything you do.
By Mira

YOGA AND SCIENCE - Part 3

2008-12-01T03:44:00.000-08:00

Scientists possess partial knowledge of the universe. They have not understood the whole code of Nature’s laws. They have no knowledge of the occult side of things. They have no knowledge of the astral, mental and higher planes such as Brahma-Loka (world of Brahma). The unseen world is of far greater importance than the sense-universe which is visible to the naked eye. Afully developed Yogi can function in all the planes and so he has full knowledge of the manifested and unmanifested Nature. The senses by which you get knowledge of the external objects are not fully developed. Therefore the knowledge obtained is partial. The external senses are exact counterparts of the internal astral senses. Scientists have no knowledge of the subtle rudiments of matter. Life will become fuller and richer, when one develops this inner eye-sight by the practice of Yoga. Just as blood, when seen under the microscope, reveals many mysterious things such as leucocytes, lymphocytes, nuclei, pigment, germs, bacilli, etc., so also the inner Yogic eye reveals many mysteries of the hidden side of things. The knowledge of the scientists is only fragmentary or partial whereas the knowledge of the Yogi is full and perfect. Science differs radically in its outlook from philosophical musings. Consequently the mode of approach to its specific problems is different from that of philosophy. Yet there is some similarity in their findings, when some broad questions are discussed. Scientists have to learn many things from the Seers of the East. Who gave power to the electrons to revolve? Who gave life to the cell or the protoplasm? What is that power that unites atoms to, from molecules? Who gave intelligence to the cells to secrete milk or bile or gastric juice from the blood? Scientists are still observing and experimenting. They are still groping in darkness. What is the cause of the origin of an impulse? Who is the director of the mind? What is the cause of the origin of thought? Even if all the living scientists were to put their heads together to solve these questions, they cannot give definite conclusive answers
From - SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

YOGA AND SCIENCE - Part 2

2008-12-01T03:24:00.000-08:00

In the matter of evidence in psychological question, the sense-perceptions with which
science naturally deals are only second-rate criteria and therefore to be received with caution. The closing of the external channels of sensation is usually the signal for the opening of the psychic, and from all evidence it would seem that the psychic sense is more extensive, acute and in every way more dependable than the physical. The business of science is generalisation of phenomena; it is the function of philosophy and Yoga to explain. Religion is the practical aspect of philosophy. Philosophy is the rational aspect of religion. The scientist tries to answer the “How” of the problem; the philosopher and the Yogi the “Why” of it. It is a mistake to say that such and such an event occurs because of certain laws of Nature. The laws of Nature do not give any real explanation of the phenomena. It is simply a statement in terms as general as possible of what happens under given circumstances in his expression of an observed order or uniformity in a natural phenomena. Science is concerned only with the phenomena. It shows a marvellous harmony of Nature. But it is the problem of philosophy
and Yoga to solve the “Why” of Nature’s harmony.

From - SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

YOGA AND SCIENCE - Part 1

2008-12-01T03:16:00.000-08:00

Yoga and Science are inseparable. Science and Religion are inseparable. Science is part of Religion. Science and Religion are necessary correlatives. Scientists are also monists in one sense.
They also emphatically declare that there is only one thing viz., Matter or energy. A Yogi tries to
control the mental forces, a scientist the physical forces. This is all the difference between a Yogi
and a scientist. A scientist is also an unconscious Raja-Yogi, but his mind works in external
grooves.Before the invention of watch, Yogins used to calculate time by measuring the shadow in
day and by the study of the movement of the stars in the heavens at night. They were perfectly exact in their calculations. Astronomy and medicine received their first impulse from the exigencies of religious worship. Yogins have a sound practical knowledge of Ayurveda. One who endeavours to qualify himself as his own doctor can become a Yogi. He has to live sometimes in the jungles and has to treat himself first, whenever diseases manifest. Otherwise his Sadhana will suffer and he cannot have rapid progress in Yoga. You will find in the books on Ayurveda: “A healthy body is a good instrument for doing virtuous actions and practicing Yoga.” Those who wrote these Ayurvedic books were great Rishis and Yogins. Science is partially unified knowledge. A scientist observes the laws of Nature, experiments in his laboratory, investigates, infers and draws exact conclusions from his observations. He understands Nature. But he knows nothing of the origin or destiny of Nature! Whomade the sun and gave power to its rays? Who combined four parts of nitrogen with one part of oxygen? Who gave power to electrons? Who gave power to atoms to combine into molecules? Who or what made and bestowed upon the ultimate particles of matter their marvellous power of varied interaction? Science does not know this great mystery. On the contrary, Yoga is completely unified knowledge. A Yogi gets inner divine realisation. He clearly sees with his inner Yogic eyes the subtle rudiments of matter. He identifies himself with the Supreme Being who is the Lord of the Prakriti (matter). He gets control over the five elements. He clearly understands the whole mystery of creation through direct intuitional knowledge. The scientist lacks this sort of knowledge. He has only experimental
knowledge. In the matter of evidence in psychological question, the sense-perceptions with which science naturally deals are only second-rate criteria and therefore to be received with caution. The closing of the external channels of sensation is usually the signal for the opening of the psychic, and from all evidence it would seem that the psychic sense is more extensive, acute and in every way more dependable than the physical.
From - SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

OBSTACLES IN YOGA - Part 3

2008-11-19T03:14:00.000-08:00

You have heard several brilliant lectures, delivered by learned monks or Sannyasins. You
have listened to several discourses and expositions on the Bhagavad-Gita, the Ramayana, the
Bhagavata and the Upanishads. You have also heard several valuable moral and spiritual
instructions. But you have not at all endeavoured to put anything into serious earnest practice and to do protracted solid Sadhana. Mere intellectual assent to a religious idea, a little closing of the eyes in the morning and at night just to deceive yourself and the Indweller and the Witness, a little endeavour to stick to the daily spiritual routine and to develop some virtues in a halt-hearted, careless manner, some mild effort to carry out the instructions of your spiritual preceptor perfunctorily will not suffice. This kind of mentality should be entirely given up. You should follow the instructions of your master andthe teachings of the Scriptures to the very letter. No leniency to the mind. There can be no half measures in the path of Yoga. Exact implicit and strict obedience to the instructions is what is expected of you.
Do not make any thoughtless remarks. Do not speak even a single idle word. Give up idle
talk, tall talk, big talk, loose talk. Avoid evil company. Become silent. Do not assert for rights in this physical, illusory plane. Do not fight for rights. Think more about your duties and less about your rights. These rights are worthless. Assert your birthright of God-consciousness. Then you are a wise man. If you are endowed with good character, celibacy (Brahmacharya), truthfulness, mercy, love, tolerance, forgiveness, serenity these qualities will more than counterbalance many other evil qualities you may possess. Then gradually these evil qualities also will vanish, if you are careful, if you focus your attention on them. If you remain in the company of a developed saint, you will be really benefited by his magnetic aura and wonderful spiritual currents. His company will be like a fortress for you. You will not be affected by evil influences. There is no fear of downfall. You can have rapid spiritual progress. Young aspirants should remain in the company of their Gurus or other experienced saints till they are firmly moulded and established in deep meditation. Nowadays many young aspirants wander aimlessly from place to place. They do not care to hear the instructions of their masters. They want independence from the very start. Hence they do not make any progress in Yoga. Humour is a rare gift of nature. It helps aspirants in their march on the spiritual path.
It removes depression. It keeps one cheerful. It brings joy and mirth. But you should not cut jokes at the expense of others and wound their feelings. The humorous words must educate and correct others. You should laugh in a mild, delicate and decent manner. Silly giggling, guffaw, or
boisterous, indecent, unrefined laughter in a rude manner should be given up, because it prevents the spiritual progress and destroys serenity of mind and serious magnanimous attitude. Sages smile through their eyes. It is grand and thrilling. Intelligent aspirants only can understand this. Don’t be childish and silly.
From - SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

OBSTACLES IN YOGA - Part 2

2008-11-19T02:52:00.000-08:00

It is rather a difficult business to eradicate the self-assertive nature. This nature is born of ignorance only. Everyone has built his personality from beginningless time. This personality has grown very strong. It is hard to bend this personality and make it pliable and elastic. You want to dominate over others. You do not want to hear the opinions and arguments of others, even though they are quite logical, sound and tenable. You have a pair of jaundiced eyes. You say: “Whatever I say is correct. Whatever I do-is correct. The views and actions of others are incorrect.” You never admit your mistakes. You try your best to support your own whimsical views by crooked arguments. If arguments fail, you will take to vituperation and hand-to-hand fight also. If people fail to show you respect and honour, you are instantaneously thrown into a fit of fury. You are immensely pleased with anybody who begins to flatter you. You will tell any number of lies to justify yourself. Self-justification goes hand in hand with self-assertive Rajasic nature. You can never grow in Yoga so long as you have this self-assertive nature with the habit of self-justification. You should change your mental attitude. You must develop the habit of looking at matters from the view-point of others. You must have the new vision of righteousness and truthfulness. Then alone you will grow in Yoga and spirituality. You should treat respect and honour as offal and poison, andcensure and dishonour as ornament and nectar. You will also find it hard to adjust yourself to the ways and habits of others. Your mind is filled, as it were, with likes and dislikes, prejudice of caste, creed and colour. You are quite intolerant. The faultfinding nature is ingrained in you. You jump at once to find the faults of others. You cannot see the good in others; you have a pair of morbid eyes. You cannot appreciate the meritorious actions of others. You brag of your own abilities and merits. That is the reason why you fight with all people and cannot maintain cordial relations with others for long time. You should overcome these defects by developing tolerance, love and other good virtues. The old Samskaras (latent impressions) of vanity, cunningness, crookedness, arrogance, petty-mindedness, fighting, boasting or bragging nature, self-esteem or thinking too much of yourself, speaking ill of others, belittling others may be still lurking in your mind. You can never shine until you remove these faults thoroughly. Success in Yoga is not possible unless these undesirable negative qualities of lower nature are completely eradicated. Those who engage themselves in hot discussions, vain debates, wranglings, lingual warfare and intellectual gymnastics cause serious damage to their astral bodies. Much energy is wasted. The astral body gets actually inflamed and an open sore is formed. Blood becomes hot. It bubbles like milk over fire. Ignorant people have no idea of the disastrous effects of unnecessary hot discussions and argumentations. Those who are in the habit of arguing unnecessarily and entering into vain discussions cannot expect an iota of progress in Yoga. Aspirants must entirely give up unnecessary discussions. They should destroy the impulses by careful introspection.

From - SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

OBSTACLES IN YOGA - Part 1

2008-11-17T04:20:00.000-08:00

There are certain obstacles in the path of Yoga, which you should, by all means, overcome
in the very beginning of your Yogic career. If you do not adequately guard yourself against these impediments in right time by the warning voice of your Guru, they will smash all your hopes and aspirations to pieces and will eventually bring about miserable downfall. Lust, greed, anger, hatred, jealousy, fear, inertia, depression, prejudice, intolerance, evil company, arrogance, self-sufficiency, desire for name and fame, curiosity, building castles in the air and hypocrisy are foremost among these. You should ever introspect and watch your mind. You should take effective measures to remove these obstacles root and branch. “Women, beds, seats, dresses, and riches are obstacles in Yoga. Betels, dainty dishes, carriages, kingdoms, lordliness and powers; gold, silver, as well as copper, gems, aloe wood, and kine; learning the Vedas and the Sastras; dancing, singing and ornaments; harp, flute, and drum; riding on elephants and horses; wives and children, worldly enjoyments; all these are so many impediments.” (Siva Samhita: Ch. V-3).
The Yogic student should not possess much wealth as it will drag him to worldly temptations. He may keep a small sum to get the wants of the body. Economical independence is ofparamount importance to an aspirant; because it will relieve him from anxieties and will enable him to continue his practices uninterruptedly. If you get easily offended even for trifling things, know that you cannot make any progressin Yoga and meditation. You should, hence, cultivate amiable, loving nature and adaptability.Some aspirants easily get offended, if their defects and vices are pointed out. They become indignant and begin to fight with the person who shows the defects. They think that the person is concocting them out of jealousy and hatred. This is bad. Others can very easily detect your defects.If you have no life of introspection, if your mind is of outgoing tendencies, how can you find out your own defects? Your self-conceit veils and blurs your mental vision. If you, therefore, want to grow in spirituality and Yoga, you must admit your defects, when they are pointed out by others. You must endeavour to eradicate them and must be really grateful to the man for pointing out your defects.
From - SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

Vedanta and Yoga - Part 2

2008-11-13T02:04:00.000-08:00

This world is a great school. This world is for your education. You learn several valuable
lessons daily. If you are wise enough to utilise all opportunities to the best possible advantage in the spirit of Yoga, your capacities and will-power will develop to an astonishing degree. You will
grow. You will evolve. You will expand. There will be integral development. You will march
forward towards the goal. All veils will drop down one by one. All limitations or barriers will be
annihilated. All shackles or fetters will be torn asunder. You will receive more and more Divine
Light Knowledge, Purity, Peace and Spiritual Strength.
You are the author of your own fate. You yourself have created this. You yourself are
entirely responsible for this. You are the architect of your joys and sorrows. Just as the spider or the silkworm creates a web or cocoon for its own destruction, so also you have created this cage of flesh by your own actions, attractions, repulsions and false egoism. You have become the slave of the flesh, slave of your body and mind, slave of countless desires. You are sunk in the quagmire of deepest ignorance.
Weep not, my child! Sorrow not! A glorious brilliant future is awaiting you! Strive to come
out of this false cage of illusion right now, this very second. If your attempt is true and sincere, if
you endeavour with all your might and main to achieve this end, then by the ready Grace of the Lord thou shalt drive away these dark clouds of ignorance and shine in your true divine colours, in your native, pristine glory. Cast aside the erroneous idea: “I am the body.” Develop the consciousness and realisation of the real “I” within you. This real “I” is Sat-Chit-Ananda or Atman or the Self, the one common
Consciousness, the spiritual thread that links all hearts.
Awaken yourself to the conscious realisation of your actual oneness with the Supreme Self.
Think of the Self continuously. As Tennyson says: “Let thy voice rise like a fountain for me night
and day.” This is the real spiritual practice (Brahma-abhyasa). This will eventually lead to
Self-realisation. Let the struggle be keen. Let your endeavour be sincere. Let your motive be pure.
There must be iron discipline, iron determination, iron will and iron Sadhana (spiritual practice).
Then there will be no difficulty in the attainment of the final beatitude of life—a life sublime in its
nature, resplendent with spiritual light, radiant with splendour, vibrant with ecstasy and replete with
Peace. Mere intellectual conception of this identity or oneness will not serve your purpose. You
must actually feel and experience the truth of the same through intuition. You must become fully
aware of the Real Self, the basis or substratum or bed-rock of this world, body, mind, Prana and the senses. You must enter into a consciousness in which the realisation becomes part and parcel of your daily life. You must live this ideal spiritual life daily. Let your neighbours actually feel how entirely a changed being you are—a superman. Let them smell the Divine Fragrance from you. A full-blown Yogi can never be concealed. Just as fragrant fumes emanate from scented sticks so also sweet spiritual fragrance will emanate from your body, the moment you attain perfection in Yoga,even though you may shut yourself up in a cave of the far-off Himalayas.

From - SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

Vedanta and Yoga - Part 1

2008-11-13T02:00:00.000-08:00

The Religion of the Vedanta and Yoga stands forth as a brilliant guiding star to the student
of Yoga Philosophy and Occultism, inviting him to the mysterious unknown world, which he
would gladly explore, and encouraging him to march onward until he reaches a stage, when all
powers dear to every human heart lie at his command, and all earthly attractions cease to influence
him any more. It is a truism that it is in the nature of every human being to strive for happiness, but
the c he gains by his actions, he finds to his utter dissatisfaction and sorrow, is only of a
limited duration. The enjoyments of the senses are transient, and the senses themselves are worn out
by excessive enjoyment. Further sin generally accompanies these enjoyments and makes him
unhappy beyond comparison. Even if the pleasures of the world are enjoyed as much as their nature
would permit, even if they are as intense, as various, as uninterrupted as possible, yet old age in all
its hideous shape threatens him with death and destruction. It should be remembered that the
enjoyments of heaven itself are not in reality more enviable than these pleasures of the senses; they
are of the same nature though more unmixed and durable. Moreover they also come to an end as
they are gained by actions; and as actions are finite their effect must also be finite. In a word, there is
necessarily an end to all these enjoyments.
O little man of little faith! Why do you vainly strive for pleasures, which you know cannot
satisfy you beyond the moment of enjoyment? Look out for an unchangeable, infinite and supreme
happiness which must come from a Being in whom there is no change. Search and find out such a
Being, and if you could only succeed in your quest, then you can get that unaltered happiness from
Him.
All the great religions of the world proclaim in one unanimous voice that there is One Being
as mentioned above. This Being, believe me, is not very far from you. He is quite close to you. He
resides in the body-temple of yours, in the innermost recesses of your heart. He is the silent Witness
of your mind, the Watcher of all the activities of your intellect. He is the Supreme Being of the
Scriptures so highly eulogised by Saints, Sages, Yogins, Philosophers and Prophets. This Being can
be realised by all through the practice of Yoga.
It is a well-known fact that any number of zeros have no intrinsic value unless the No. 1 is
placed before them. Even so the wealth of all the three worlds is nothing, if you do not lead a
spiritual life, if you do not try to acquire the Spiritual Wealth, if you do not strive for
Self-realisation. You will have to live in the Soul or the Self within. You will have to add Atman to
the life here. That is the reason why Lord Jesus says: “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His
righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Every one of you is a power in yourself. You can influence others. You can radiate Joy and
Peace to millions upon millions of people far and near. You can elevate others even from a long
distance. You can transmit your powerful, soul-stirring, beneficial thoughts to others, because you
are an image of God, nay, you are God Himself the moment the veil of ignorance enshrouding you
is rent asunder.

From - SRI SWAMI SIVANANDA

Taoist yoga

2008-10-05T22:49:00.000-07:00

During the so-called ‘primitive period’ in China (10,000-3000 BC), the Chinese looked into the supernatural and mystical forces of the body. It is commonly thought that during this period the acupuncture meridians were slowly discovered, as were the many different herbs still in use today.

The acupuncture meridians were first used to open up the energy centres of the body for self-realisation, in much the same way that Indian yogis do today, but now acupuncture is used mainly for healing.

From - Buddhist Meditation - Contemplation of the Mind

Getting Stronger With Yoga

2008-09-14T21:48:00.000-07:00

Yoga is an ancient technique that promotes flexibility and health. It originated in India over 5000 years ago. The yoga positions are specifically designed to tone, stretch, and strengthen your muscles, make your body more flexible in general, help you with any weight related issues, and teach you meditation and relaxation. This is one of the most popular ways to achieve overall health - both physical and spiritual.

The equipment you will need for practicing yoga is not expensive and the yoga classes that you can sign up for are very affordable. You will need a yoga ball and a yoga mat. Some of the more popular yoga practices are - Kundalini Yoga (awakens the energy within us through easier positions that are suitable for all age groups), Hatha Yoga (the most popular yoga, it is used for finding balance and getting rid of everyday stress), Ashtanga Yoga (This is a very challenging yoga. It is for the more advanced and the people who practice it move from one challenging position to another), and Bikram Yoga (This is a more demanding version of the Hatha Yoga. It is very popular in California and it is made up of 26 positions and 22 breathing exercises).

Depending on your needs you can work on specific positions - the ones that will help you get rid of stress, manage your weight, provide you with more balance, or whatever it is that you need and want to improve. Yoga classes are great for beginners and after you start to understand the fundamentals you can practice yoga on your own.

By Tom Black

The Benefits of Yoga – Yoga for All

2008-08-23T04:03:00.000-07:00

Yoga is an ancient exercise, which was originated in India 5,000 years ago. Yoga is an applied science of the body and mind. Practicing yoga creates a balance between the body and mind. Yoga helps in internal as well as external strength. It balances the yin and yang. Yoga teaches about healthy body and healthy mind. Good health means calm mind.

The balance between mind, body and soul is established by yoga. Yoga was developed thousands of years ago by yogis. There are thousands of yoga asanas (exercises) and each has its own significance. Yoga can be done in the morning or in the evening. A trained instructor is required to teach the person. There are various breathing exercises, which help in relaxing the whole body. There are many standing exercises, deep breathing exercises and exercises, which are done sitting and lying flat.

There are many yoga institutes in US. There are various types of yoga, like kundalini yoga, hatha yoga etc. People with diseases and pain, whether it is migraine or arthritis, can utilize yoga as it can help in healing. By doing yoga the body’s immune system functions well and the healing properties in the body is enhanced. Meditation helps in improving a person’s concentration and memory.

Yoga also helps in muscle flexibility, stamina, lowers fat, improves blood circulation, lowers bad cholesterol levels and makes the mind calm. Everybody can do yoga and attain its benefits.

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Learning Yoga For Your Good Health

2008-08-22T02:38:00.000-07:00

For many of us, cranking out a ten-minute mile on a treadmill or pounding the floor of the racquetball court can mean major joint pain. Fortunately, you can cover all three of your major exercise types (aerobic, anaerobic and stretching) through a low-impact activity like yoga.

Yoga is an ancient Indian practiced designed to promote relaxation, health and flexibility. By using a series of poses and breathing techniques, yoga also works on the practitioner's balance, strength and overall health.

It has been shown to reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, diminish back pain and improve cardiovascular health. Depending on the type of yoga you do, yoga can be an aerobic, anaerobic or stretching exercise or all three.

Essentially, yoga tones and stretches all your joints and muscles. Not only does this unique form of exercise deliver physical benefits, it also reduces stress while promoting relaxation. When it comes to aging well, yoga is one of the best activities you can do.

Some types of it are more strenuous than others, so before you sign up for a class or purchase a yoga DVD, you may want to make sure you're choosing a yoga program that's right for you. Keep reading to learn about the five major types of yoga:

Integral Yoga: This is a basic and very gentle form of yoga with a set pattern of postures. The emphasis is on pose control, relaxation and deep meditation. Integral yoga is perfect for beginners.

Ashtanga Yoga: You may see Ashtanga yoga listed as "power yoga." This type of yoga moves fast and focuses on a continuous flow of movement through the traditional yoga poses. By incorporating strength, aerobic exertion and flexibility, Ashtange embodies all three types of exercise.

Kundalini Yoga: This form of yoga is extremely spiritual and tends to focus predominantly on breathing exercises, chanting, relaxation and meditation.

Iyengar Yoga: Iyengar yoga focuses predominantly on positioning and poses that are precise and correct. Using wooden blocks, buckets or straps, Iyengar concentrates on alignment and the actual structure of a pose. Though slow and steady, Iyengar is not recommended for yoga beginners.

Bikram Yoga: Also known as "hot yoga," Bikram yoga is typically done in a room heated to anywhere from 80 to 100 degrees. Vigorous and intense, this form of yoga may be too much for those suffering from respiratory problems, high blood pressure or cardiac issues.

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Relaxation Techniques In Stress Management

2008-08-20T23:13:00.000-07:00

If you are stressed out, you probably know that relaxation techniques which will also help to relax the mind will be an enormous help in resolving your problems. This article will outline some relaxation techniques which are used in stress management and will point to a website which has much useful information.

Relaxation techniques work on the idea that you can't be relaxed and uptight at the same time. Relaxation exercises help reduce anxiety and stress. Relaxation training can help you to control your body's reaction to stress. There are basically two main ways: Learn how to turn off the alarm system through various relaxation methods. There are more sophisticated versions of these muscular methods, like the shower of relaxation and progressive relaxation. If we consider cognitive theory, its basic premise is that peaceful thoughts cause relaxation and stressful thoughts cause stress. A massage provides deep relaxation and improves physiological processes. Many people use specific relaxation techniques including yoga, meditation and breathing techniques. Sometimes spa-like music is used along with a collaborative counselling approach to elicit the relaxation response. Although not proven effective if used alone, yoga, meditation and progressive muscle relaxation are very important to help slow the mind and body down and undoubtedly play an important role in controlling the effects of the buzz. Make time for relaxation and leisure activities. Perform relaxation exercises or get a massage.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation Technique

Tighten all the muscles you can find: legs, arms, back, face- Hold for 10 seconds- Then, release- Repeat a few times. Other activities that actually reduce stress include daily exercise, finding constructive outlets for your emotions, socializing, performing relaxation exercises and eating a healthy diet. Meditation, relaxation skills and muscle relaxation are all ways for you to chill out and feel good. Stress management and relaxation are two techniques that can be effectively used to treat stress. Stress management and relaxation can help individuals take control of their own situations and effectively deal with stress. There is a difference between stress management and relaxation. You can begin to use the relaxation techniques that work for your specific needs, body and mind. Stress management and relaxation are two kinds of therapy, quite often self-therapy, that can be used together to help recognize and alleviate stress in daily life,

We should remember that successful stress management is not about applying one or another method, or taking one or another pill; successful stress management is about dealing with a problem in general. If you would like to know more about relaxation techniques in stress management, visit the link below this article.

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Complete Health Bliss With Yoga Relaxation

2008-08-16T05:23:00.000-07:00

Until recently, I was totally oblivious of the intertwinement between yoga benefits and yoga relaxation. Like many women, I also sought solace in leisure activities such as socializing, partying, watching a movie, or reading, to relax.

It was only when I started practicing yoga that I became aware of the mammoth yoga benefits that can be obtained from the state of profound relaxation. A few yoga relaxation sessions were enough for me to perceive the generation of sublime state of harmony.

Different women have totally different reasons for practicing yoga. Some women are interested in the health benefits they obtain after performing yoga exercises routinely, while others practice yoga to achieve the desired state of harmony between the inner and outer self, but a large percentage of women carry out yoga sessions just for relaxation.

At this conjuncture, a very important question crops up, “Why can’t leisure activities provide relaxation?”

I consider, that leisure activities are merely a gateway to escape from stressful conditions and feelings for a while. As soon as you confront a stress producing condition, you neither know how to react to it nor you know how to deal with it.

Accomplished yoga practitioners consider that yoga relaxation develops a woman’s ability to deal with stress more effectively and at the same time makes her more energized, concentrated and relaxed. As a consequence, a woman is able to regain her mental composure quickly during stressful conditions and this enables her to deal with stress with an iron hand. This is one of the greatest yoga benefits associated with yoga relaxation.

Modern women live under overt and subtle pressure to look good, behave well and impress others. She has to deal with competition at work place and difficulties in personal relationships. All these lifestyle factors adversely affect her physical and mental health.

Under such circumstances, the big question is, “How can a woman preserve her physical and mental health?” You don’t have to scratch your head to find an answer because yoga, the legacy of our forefathers is still powerful enough to help today’s woman to stay healthy.

If you still have some doubts about the effectiveness of this ancient system of exercise, then consider some yoga benefits retrieved, after thorough research and investigations.

1. Yoga relaxation improves the overall physical and mental health of a woman through the relaxing effect on her body and the calming effect on her mind. This is one of the most basic yoga benefits related to relaxation.

2. It relieves and delays the onset of fatigue.

3. Yoga relaxations works to expand the consciousness, which brings about greater freedom from negative conditioning and repressed memories.

4. It helps a woman to minimize and alleviate illusions, confusions, and inessential burdens, and develop a living that is more skilful.

5. Life is complex and challenging. There is suffering in life. Yoga relaxation helps us to deal with the modern stresses of competition, complexity and change.

There are many more yoga benefits that can be linked with yoga relaxation. Infact, each yoga practitioner has an incredible yoga health benefit experience to narrate.

To achieve maximum yoga benefits and to accelerate the process of arriving to the intense stage of relaxation, perseverant yoga practitioners advocate adherence to five essential components of yoga:

1. Diet- It is an important factor because the things we eat influence not only the structure of our body, but also our brain.

2. Breathing techniques- Deep and prolonged breath helps your brain to stay oxygenated, which contributes to analyzing things in a clearer manner.

3. Postures- They cultivate and maintain mental and physical balance, strength and health. They are most beneficial when practiced on a regular or daily basis and at the same time, each time they are practiced.

4. Meditation practice- During relaxation it is essential to mediate on the true values of the world.

5. Relaxation practice- Yoga postures are often cumbersome and demand a lot of attention therefore yoga relaxation is necessary and mandatory stage of every yoga routine.

Yoga is a connection between spiritual and real world, and yoga relaxation is considered to be a stage, which safely brings you back to the present reality you live in.

To yield rich yoga benefits out of yoga relaxation, a woman must have the right attitude and focus. These are considered to be the key elements. Entering the profound stage of relaxation and synchronization between your inner and your outer self cannot happen unless you physically and mentally desire it.

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7 Relaxation Techniques for Stress Reduction

2008-08-12T22:10:00.000-07:00

There are many relaxation techniques people can learn to keep stress at bay. One of the most important aspects of stress reduction is knowing how to relax.

Here are some relaxation techniques that individuals can use to help them relax:

1. Breathing is key when it comes to controlling stress. Make a conscious effort to breath in through your nose. Take deep long breaths, instead of shallow ones. There have been some medical findings that associate stress reduction with breathing pattern.

Taking slow deep breaths can also relieve anxiety. During the day, whenever individuals feel that stress is creeping up on them, they should take a few minutes to gather themselves. This will also allow them to take some deep breaths to help them relax.

2. Get into yoga. This type of exercise puts an emphasis on relaxation. It is a great way to release tension from the body. Yoga can help one feel more calm. It also relieves tension from the muscles.

3. Listening to music is a great way to relieve stress. Listening to soft, soothing music has a calming effect on a person's body. It eases the mind, and help the body relax.

4. Individuals who want to relax should do so in a quiet and comfortable environment. Being in a room that is cluttered and messy will not help anyone relax. This also applies to the working environment. Work stations that are cluttered and disorganized will only add to a person's stress level. So individuals should always keep their work space tidy and clean.

5. A massage is also a great way to relieve stress from the body. It's also very conducive to relaxation.

6. Baths are also a good idea! After a long day at work, what better way to relax than to take a long, relaxing bath. This will helps to invigorate the body.

7. Regular exercising is a great way to get rid of stress. Physical exertion helps to provide an outlet for pent up emotions that are related to stress. There is also strong evidence that links a hormone called endorphins-which has been known to promote a feeling of euphoria with exercise. This is why after exercising a person tends to feel much better.

There are many relaxation techniques that people can take advantage of to help them get rid of stress. It is just a matter of finding one that works for them, and can be adapted well into their lifestyle!

Written By:-Tim Lee
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_65665_24.html

Relaxation Technique: Yoga has a Long Lost Art for Relaxing You

2008-08-11T22:45:00.000-07:00

We all know that one of the necessary things needed to keep an automobile in good condition is cooling the engine when it gets hot.

Well the same principle applies to the human body. When the body and mind are constantly overworked, their efficiency in performing their duties diminishes. Modern social life, food, work and even play make it difficult for the modern man to use a proper relaxation technique for rejuvenation.

An observance of nature will show us that animals love relaxation and sleep. They get as much sleep as they want. Rest and sleep are essential to recharge our nervous energy
as our physical, emotional and mental balance depends on the quantity and quality of these vital necessities. They are the only things that recharge these batteries and allow for the proper elimination of metabolic wastes.

But just how can one learn a proper relaxation technique?

Only the corpse pose offered to us in Yoga can aid modern man to recapture the art of relaxation. In order to achieve this, three methods are used by the yogis. The three methods are known as physical, mental and spiritual relaxation.

Physical Relaxation Technique: We all know that every action is the result of thought originated in the mind consciously or subconsciously. When we want to perform an act, the thought is generated in the mind, is transmitted to the brain and simultaneously, the brain telegraphs the message through the nerves, and the muscles contract. Therefore as we can send messages to make the muscles contract, we can send messages to make them relax.

This relaxation technique is known as autosuggestion. Commence autosuggestions from the toes upwards while the suggestion passes through the muscles and reaches up to the eyes and ears at the top. This is performed by saying mentally to yourself: “My toes are hereby relaxed; my ankles are hereby relaxed…”

Mental Relaxation Technique: During mental tension one should breathe slowly and rhythmically for a few minutes and concentrate on breathing. Slowly the mind will become calm and one is able to feel a kind of floating sensation.

Spiritual Relaxation Technique: However one tries to relax the mind, one cannot completely remove all tensions and worries from it unless one goes to spiritual relaxation.
This is in itself is a slightly demanding but very rewarding practice.

Yogis know that unless man can withdraw himself from the body idea and separate himself from the ego consciousness, there is no way of obtaining complete relaxation. So from mental relaxation, he withdraws himself and identifies himself with the all pervading, all powerful, all peaceful and joyful self, because all the source of power, knowledge are in the soul and not the body. Man can only free himself from the clutches of evil emotions by asserting his true self by stating mentally: "I am that pure consciousness or self" This identification with the self completes the process of relaxation.

The method to be applied here is to breathe deeply and squarely in a ratio of 5:5:5 seconds while mentally chanting the mantra above. As you will observe it goes hand-in-hand with mental relaxation after the physical auto suggestions are completed.

To get the most of this practice, you should practice this after your poses, before going to sleep or even during a break or recess at work or school, or right at your desk.

I always tell people: “Hey if it is said God took a break on the 7th day after making the world, who are we as humans not to take time out to relax?” So to recharge your energy and restore you physical, mental and emotional balance and strength, apply the methods above to learn how to relax the proper way.

Written By:- Foras Aje

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Foras_Aje

Learning Yoga Techniques

2008-08-10T23:49:00.000-07:00

Yoga is an ancient form of exercise wherein participants use certain postures in combination with dedicated breathing techniques to improve physical and emotional health. Unlike many other forms of exercise, yoga connects mind and body in a journey towards overall health. There are many forms of yoga techniques in practice today. Deciding what technique works best for you is a very personal choice.

The differences between yoga techniques usually lie in the yoga positions – or asanas. A professional yoga instructor can guide you through different yoga techniques and ensure that you are doing them correctly and safely. This can be enormously beneficial to you when determining what yoga technique works for you.

With the increased popularity of yoga, more and more yoga studios are opening in cities and small towns everywhere. Visiting the studios and participating in a few trial classes will quickly tell you all you need to know about yoga techniques.

Additionally, there are a multitude of DVDs and videos that will teach you yoga techniques in the privacy of your own home. This is an affordable way to give yoga a try; if you’re not comfortable with a particular yoga technique you are not committed to continuing with it.

To get an overview of particular yoga techniques before actually participating in them, go online to the get the most comprehensive information about yoga techniques – their background, particular postures, and health benefits.

Regardless which of the yoga techniques you choose, you should never begin any new exercise program without first consulting with your doctor. It’s important that you decided along with a medical professional what works best for your body.

Overall, yoga techniques of any kind benefit health dramatically. Those who practice yoga consistently report an overall sense of well being – increased fitness, flexibility, energy, and mental wellness.

So take the time to explore a variety of yoga techniques. You’ll be rewarded with a lifelong passion and an ever-present outlet for stress and tension. Yoga techniques, when done properly, will bring you a sense of peace and vitality that can last for a lifetime.

Written By:-Michelle Bery

Article Source:- http://www.isnare.com/?aid=149941&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

Yoga For Relaxation And Relaxation Techniques For Busy People

2008-08-08T01:38:00.000-07:00

Do you need to relax? Most of people are having a busy life and do not have time to relax. In their busy life, people are on the run moment they get up from bed to the time they retire for the day. How can you be relax when whole day is spent in meeting the deadlines, pushing schedules, getting to office, getting back to home and not having enough time for having proper meals? In addition, there can be different types of stress due to financial problems, health problems in family, lack of emotional support or work pressures. End result is we are feeling stressed mentally and physically for most part of the day. You need relaxation urgently if you are becoming easily irritable, feeling loss of energy, not enjoying your work and have a feeling of hopelessness. Even if you are perfectly fine and healthy, proper relaxation can make a wonderful change to your life and reduce your stress levels.

A person who does not do any work need not be necessarily relaxed. Similarly, lying in your bed does not ensure relaxation if your mind is busy elsewhere.

Is this Relaxation? Following activities are not true relaxation :

Collapsing into a sofa and watching your favourite channels. Sex, violence and tear jerking emotions can further add to your emotional baggage.
Reading a newspaper or a magazine can make you feel better but it is not true relaxation.
Eating, drinking or partying.
Gossiping or spreading rumours about colleagues.
Use of drugs or any other intoxicant.

Is Relaxation possible? Yes, relaxation is possible for everybody but it requires positive action. You can master the master the art of relaxation with persistent efforts. Relaxation is not a one time affair, you have to practice it regularly. Make relaxation techniques a part of your life. Do a self analysis to identify any major causes of stress that can be resolved easily and try to remove them. For true relaxation, there has to be a paradigm shift in the way you think. You have to let go of things. Do not think that you are doing everything. Remember, you are not indispensable, world does not rest on your shoulders alone. Here are some tips for relaxation.

Yoga for relaxation. Yoga breathing and yoga asanas are real stress busters and improves your feel good factor. It removes negative feelings/ emotions from your mind. Yoga helps in harmonising your mind and body, provides you more energy to carry out your work.

About 15 minutes of yoga practice in the morning can help. Practice shava asana and rhythmic deep breathing initially.
Also, during the day, you can practice rhythmic breathing any time you have minimum three to five minutes of spare time. Concentrate on your breath during the day and become aware of the rhythm of breathing.
In general, consciously try to take deep breaths whenever you have time. After some days your breathing will automatically become deep and you can feel the difference in your spirits and resulting mental peace.
At least once or twice a week practice yoga nidra for complete relaxation.

Relaxation and mind control. Relaxation is an art which starts with a positive state of mind. If you resolve in your mind that you are happy and relaxed, you will feel relaxed. With continuous auto suggestions, mind can be trained over a period of time.

Concentration and meditation Spend some time in solitude in a day, preferably early morning. Choose a room with no light or any sound. Try to concentrate your mind. Observe the thoughts going through your mind as an independent observer. After some days practice,
gradually try to have a control on your thoughts. You should not allow negative thoughts to enter your mind. It is possible but requires practice. Develop an attitude of self confidence.

Actions for Relaxation. Forward your clock by 5 minutes and you can avoid most of the troubles. Be available for all your appointments well in time. For example, before going to office, get ready 5 minutes early, relax and think about days task.

Close your eyes and take 5 to 10 deep breaths, this gives you a momentary break to reorganise your thoughts.
At times, leave our place of work for few minutes and take a walk to coffee machine.
Take to stairs and climb to next floor.
A good night's sleep is essential for better relaxation and helps to avoid effects of sleep deprivation.
Sometimes have a change in your daily routine. For example, sometimes go on a long walk in a nearby park. Spend some time in the lap of nature.
Develop a hobby such as practicing yoga, meditating, cycling, swimming or gardening.

Emotions for Relaxation.

You do not need other people's approval for all your actions, so be relaxed and do not bother what other people say about you.
You can relax while doing your work, provided you like your work and work with full concentration.
Do not worry about past or future, take care of your present.
Spend some time with your family every day. Your family can provide you much needed emotional support.
You can also find pleasant memories within you to help you create relaxation.
Indeed having a happy married life and harmonious environment at home is essential for peace of mind.

Control your breathing and heart rate by using rhythmic breathing so that you stay composed and calm under all circumstances. Relaxation essentially involves identifying and prioritising your most important jobs and utterly disregard unimportant issues. Practicing these relaxation tips/ techniques will enable you to focus on relevant issues, improve your productivity at work and lead a healthy life.

Written By:-Daljit Kaur

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daljit_Kaur

Yoga Techniques for Headache | Yoga Techniques for Relieving Headache | Yoga poses

2008-08-07T02:36:00.000-07:00

Yoga Techniques for Headache - A Natural Remedy

Yoga means the union of the soul with the body and the mind. Or understanding with reality. Today, yoga techniques for headache are an effective way to control annoying headaches. Yoga techniques for headache are a refining practice and proven to be very effective. Yoga acts as a healing and preventive therapy.

Stress is one of the main reasons for recurring headache problems Stress targets our mind. Ignoring stress is dangerous, as it leads to many very serious health and mental problems including headaches, heart disease,cancer, and lung ailments.

Stress is not the only reason for headaches. However, there are several reasons such as personal problems, dehydration, eyestrain and many more.

Headaches are common and can occur to anyone. Generally it is not a serious one, unless chronic. For a permanent relief without side effects, yoga techniques for headache is a natural medication that works just as good as traditional medications.

Practicing a yoga pose that needs you to place your head down can really work out.
The reality is that if you are suffering from simple tension headaches, then practicing yoga techniques for headache can help and you will learn to release tension and keep headaches away.

Yoga Techniques Can Relieve Headache

Recent researches illustrate that yoga techniques such as poses,breathing, and relaxation techniques are successful in relieving many ailments such as headache.

There are many simple yoga poses in yoga techniques for headache that will help you to release tension in your neck, shoulders, and upper back. Poses such as Forward bend, Downward Facing Dog and the Cobra are good to practice when suffering from tension headaches. All these poses allow you to hang your head loosely. Stretching the neck and upper shoulder muscles must be a regular part of your yoga routine. If you are already suffering from headache, then never try to force yourself in doing something that would be uncomfortable and painful for you.

Try to keep some gap until you feel better and then work on them. Just stretching and relaxing the muscles will help relieve it.

Also, there are some relaxing poses, which you can practice, that will help fight those tension headaches and keep them away from recurring. The poses such as Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose, and Child’s Pose are good for treating headaches. Remember to relax the face muscles as well, particularly relax your jaw when practicing these poses.

Yoga techniques for headache relieves headache through breathing exercises, as breathing is an important part of yoga routines. For this, you need to take control, breathe slow and control your inhales and exhales.

You can acquire control of your breathing and can situate the tension in your neck and shoulders. Once they identified, you can work on relaxing them. When you are practicing these yoga poses, ensure that you are breathing correctly.

Always remember to contact a doctor, if you suffer from more than a simple tension headache and to make sure that there is nothing more serious wrong. Yoga techniques for headache is not a complete remedy if you have severe headache.

The only thing that yoga techniques for headache can do, when you practice the poses two to three times a week, help you to identify the most tensed muscles, and help you to learn the ways to relax them.

If you have headaches even after practicing yoga techniques for headache, then you need to consult your trained yoga instructor and ask him to suggest some special poses that will aim your tension points, so that you can attain the relief that you are looking for.
Written By:-Alien
Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_189593_23.html

Basic Yoga Relaxation Techniques

2008-08-05T02:18:00.000-07:00

The practice of Yoga has been around for centuries, and was originally developed from Hindu Philosophy. Yoga is the Sanskrit word which means "union". The original purpose of Yoga was to "find the union of the individual with the divine means." This was accomplished by using Yoga techniques along with proper diet, exercise, breathing, posture, and mediation.

Hatha-yoga is probably the most popular type of this practice. People use Hatha-yoga in order to improve their health and sense of well being. This is accomplished by learning body control through breathing exercises, posture positions, and by concentration of the mind. The people of today's modern society usually practice Yoga for the benefits of relaxation.

There are numerous posture positions to choose from, but the most common and most widely-known is the Lotus Position. To perform this, you must be first seated on the floor. Place your right right on your left thigh, and your left foot on your right thigh. This may sound easier than it really is. In order to accomplish this, bend your right leg at the knee and grab your right foot with your hands. Then, place your right foot on your opposite thigh. The next step is to bend your left knee and grab your left foot with your hands. Place your left foot on the opposite thigh. Both knees should be on the floor, and the bottoms of your feet should be facing upward. Keep your spine straight too.

Now that you have your feet and legs in place, you will need to position your hands also. There are three ways in which to do this:

The first position- Hold both of your hands palm-side up. Now place one hand on top of the other hand and lay both of them on the heels of your feet.

The second position- Keep the palms of your hands down and place both hands on your knees.

The third position- Place the palms of both hands face-up. Then place both hands on your knees and form a circle with your thumb and index finger. Keep the remaining fingers straight outward.

Another common technique that can help you relax and de-stress your body is called "alternate nostril breathing." It is, of course, performed by breathing through one nostril at a time. In order to do this, use your thumb and the little finger of your right hand. Use the right thumb to close off the right nostril. Lay the remaining fingers gently between your eyebrows. Inhale slowly and deeply through the remaining open nostril, and then hold your breath as long as you possibly can. Then, when you cannot hold your breath any longer, uncover your right nostril and cover your left nostril with the little finger of your right hand. Let your breath come out slowly-do not force it or blow hard- and exhale completely through your nostril. You can practice this technique for a few minutes every day, or you can use it anytime that you feel the need to relax.

Deep breathing exercises, such as this one, has a natural calming effect on the mind and the body because of the increase in oxygen that it brings to your entire being.

Written By:-Thanapong Supornchai

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thanapong_Supornchai

Yoga For Mind, Body And Spiritual Pleasure

2008-08-03T23:44:00.001-07:00

For years yoga has been used in many forms for healing and relaxing mind, body and spirit. Yoga has proven benefits for one's overall health and well being. The popularity of yoga enhances enormously as the scientific crowd is coming up with substantiating evidences for the benefits of yoga.

Yoga helps tone and strengthens the body and builds muscle over time. It also benefits cardio and circulatory system too. Another benefit of yoga is its power to ease muscle and joint pains.
Body focused yoga includes – Bikram yoga, Ashtanga yoga, Iyengar yoga and Vinyasa yoga. These type of yoga benefit deferent the body in different ways which include strength and grace.

Mind focused yoga includes - Bhakti yoga, Mantra yoga and Raja yoga. The benefits of mind yoga vary just as mush as body yoga. The benefits include patience and concentration and can have the same effects as meditation.

Yoga helps in attaining absolute peace. Some of the basic spiritual benefits of yoga are improved concentration, regulated breath and clarity of mind. The improved concentration and clarity of mind assist to enhance your skills and increase productivity.

Other spiritual benefits of yoga include the psychic control, mind control and thought control. The relaxation in the thoughts will help you gain the knowledge. The control over the thoughts will help to suppress the materialistic pressures of the life. However the ultimate spiritual benefit of yoga will be the self realization. The understanding of self will help assure the healing of the pain of the body as well as the mind.

Yoga is an exercise and an art that anyone can do no matter their age. It can give you health, strength and a sense of well being for the rest of your life.

Written by Nick Mutt. Know more natural Home remedies for depression. Visit our new Beauty and fashion accessories store at www.beautyandaccessories.com and find a wide range of beauty accessories and fashion tips!!

Beginner Yoga Poses

2008-08-02T02:31:00.000-07:00

Starting yoga may be confusing to you at first with all the different positions that is taught. When you start yoga class the instructor can go over the different names with you to help you learn the beginner yoga poses. Yoga is a great way to stretch your muscles safely and it is useful to everyone, even women who are pregnant. If you have had a sports injury or work injury yoga may be a great form of exercise to get you back on track and help you heal faster.

Yoga Poses

Your instructor will go over some beginner poses with you if you are just starting yoga. Here are the names of these poses.The Rabbit Pose teaches you techniques to relieve neck and head pain as well as back pain.

Birds Wing pose is great for beginners, intermediate or advance. Other poses you will hear are Happy Baby pose, Standing Yoga Mudra, Downward Facing Dog Plank, Cat Cow Pointer Sequence, Cobra pushup with Roll, Saw, Reclined Twist, Twisted Root, Teaser Prep, The Curl, Prone Gluteals, Swimming, Warrior I, Warrior II, Bridge with Roll, Cross Legged Sit and Stretch, and Chair.

The yoga poses you will learn are going to teach you many things, including how to reduce and handle stress, understand life and be in touch with your inner feelings, help your body to be balanced. This doesn't happen after one session. You should be prepared to continue yoga on a regular basis in order to get the full result of yoga and what it is intended to do. Each pose will show you a different way to handle your life and balance your body. In order to use yoga to its full potential make sure you practice it regularly and without stopping. If you cannot join a class there are CD's and DVD's available that will teach you all about beginner poses.

Written by Karlise Amerson. Find the latest information on Yoga for beginners as well as BCBG Cocktail Dresses.