Introduction to the Universal Princples of Yoga

Aloha Everyone,

The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yug” which means to merge, unite, or join.  Yoga is a science, a system of Indian philosophy and it is over 5,000 years old.

Yoga is not a religion. The ultimate goal of yoga, which literally means, union, is to reunite you with the Universal Source.  

The 8 limbs of yoga come from the Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra and it is the basis of the yoga philosophy we all should live by. This is a scientific, holistic approach to living healthy physical and spiritual life.

1) Yama – self-restraint and universal morality
2) Niyama – personal observances
3) Asanas – physical body postures
4) Pranayama – breathing exercises
5) Pratyahara – withdrawl or control of the senses
6) Dharana  – concentration
7) Dhyana  – meditation
 Samadhi – bliss, union with the supreme consciousness

Conduct towards others or social discipline

Conduct towards oneself or individual discipline

The practice of the postures for physical discipline

Breathe control for mental discipline

Self realization

Stages one and two, yama and niyama, are ethical disciplines, which are important in most cultures.  Conduct toward others, yama, and personal discipline, niyma, form the foundation of yoga.  They include concepts such as truthfulness, non-violence, noncoveting, moderation, cleanliness, contentment, devotion and self-study.

In our class, we will incorporate teachings of T’ai Chi, Qi-gong as well as third and fourth stages of yoga.  We will also introduce the sixth stage, Dharana, concentration, and seventh stage, Dhyana, meditation as we feel suitable and appropriate.

The study of yoga is sequential and developmental.  It is a lifelong study which guides the practitioner through the stages of yoga leading to physical, mental, psychological and spiritual well-being.

Sources:

Kundalini, the Profound Sciences of Meditation, Yoga, Pranayama, Anmol Mehta, Kundalini Yoga, Open Space Yoga, Akaljas Medley, Silent Dance, Kaimuki, Hawaii, Iyengar Yoga, Nancy Horlacher

Namaste — Cathi