Derived from the Sanskrit word yuj means ‘union’, Yoga refers to far more than exercise. It is the union of the individual consciousness or soul with the Universal Consciousness or Spirit. It encompasses a variety of disciplines designed to ultimately bring its practitioners closer to true nature. Yoga is a 5000 year old Indian body of knowledge. Though many think of yoga only as a physical exercise where people twist, turn, stretch, and breathe in the most complex ways, these are actually only the most superficial aspect of this profound science of unfolding the infinite potentials of the human mind and soul.
Meditation supplements and reinforces the disciplines of thought by focusing the mind and relaxing the body. Pranayama is the extension and control of one’s breath. Practicing proper techniques of breathing can help bring more oxygen to the blood and brain, eventually helping control prana or the vital life energy. Pranayama also goes hand in hand with various yoga asanas. The union of these two yogic principles is considered as the highest form of purification and self-discipline, covering both mind and body. Pranayama techniques also prepare us for a deeper experience of meditation.
