Yoga

The term ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘yuj’, meaning union; the union of the individual consciousness with the universal consciousness.

Yoga is not merely a form of exercise for the body, but a path towards total harmony of body, mind and spirit. It is an ancient wisdom for a healthier, happier and more peaceful way of living that ultimately leads to self-realization, the union with the Self.

Yoga brings the mind to the present moment, improving clarity, and alertness in the mind. The mind becomes peaceful, and is able to deal with day-to-day stress.

Scriptures suggest numerous means of attaining this union with the Self, to name a few:

• Through knowledge, Jnana yoga
• Through acknowledging, honoring the Divine, through devotion, Bhakti yoga
• Through selfless action, service to the society, Karma yoga
• Through determined effort to achieve wellbeing of body and mind, Hatha yoga
• Through meditation, Raja yoga
• Through practices to awaken and regulate the flow of pranic energy*, Kundalini yoga

* Pranic energy is derived from prana, a sanskrit word meaning vital, life-sustaining force and vital energy in the natural processes of the universe.