Yoga: what is it?

December 9th, 2006

Yoga is a small word with a big meaning: it does not mean exercise or flexibility, it simply means ‘union’. It aims at integrating the disparate elements of one’s being on all levels. So, by clarifying the term, we immediately can become aware of why it is possible for yoga to be expressed in so many different forms.

There are a great many yoga classes available and naturally some are closer to its core while others operate from a much wider orbit. The yoga that most of us are likely to come into contact with comes under the umbrella term ‘astanga’, which means ‘eight limbed’. With integration constituting the main thrust or the trunk of the system with the eight limbs as branches.

These include the five yamas or universal guiding principles; they really give yoga its distinct flavour, acting like a compass guiding the yogin back towards the central intention. The yamas include non-violence (ahimsa), which is understood directly in the context of practice. The other limbs include yoga asana or posture as well as pranayama (breathing techniques), and meditation. All of the limbs interpenetrate and influence each other and all are constantly tested in the fires of reality so that the form reveals the meaning and the meaning develops the form.

Yoga is suitable for all but the range of techniques will mean that each style or instructor should be chosen according to personal suitability. All good teachers will teach safely and with confidence that should be apparent early on and will be happy for you to ask them about any thing about which you are unsure.

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