Yoga means “union” or “yoke” in Sanskrit. It is the unity of the body, breath and mind and ultimately the spirit with the divine. Yoga can be practiced anywhere and by anyone. As one begins the hatha yoga journey he or she can hope to find improved posture, joint flexibility, strength, improved balance, improved concentration and better emotional balance. We learn the tools that allow the body to sit comfortably in a steady meditative posture. Once the body and mind are free of obstacles the attention can be focused on an object, breathing becomes effortless, the energy channels clear, meditation begins.
Meditation is the central practice of Yoga. In the Raja Yoga system codified by Sri Patanjali, meditation is the seventh rung on the ladder to self realization, preceded by withdrawal of the senses and concentration. Meditation leads to Samadhi – levels of enlightenment. On a practical level, meditation helps us organize our mind and emotions. It leads to greater self awareness and awareness of the world around us. In a sense, it can be a tool for self-therapy as it helps us uncover the subtle forces of the sub- conscious mind and allows us to remove obstacles to our self development.
Urdhva Mukha Svanasana(Upward Facing Dog)
Gomukhasana(Cow Face Pose)
Sarvangasana(Shoulderstand)
Tadasana(Mountain Pose)
