What is Yoga?

What is Yoga?

Yoga in Sanskrit terms means union.  In practice it is a philosophy and lifestyle with the aim of union with God, The Universe, Cosmic Collective Consciousness, The Source and so on.  Yoga practices  are broken down into many types with their own aspects. 

•     Jnana Yoga                              Union by knowledge
•       Bhakti Yoga                             Union by love and devotion
•       Karma Yoga                             Union by action and service
•       Mantra Yoga                            Union by voice and sound
•       Yantra Yoga                             Union by vision and form
•       Laya and Kundalini Yoga           Union by arousal of energy channels
•       Tantric Yoga                            Union by harnessing vital energy
•       Hatha Yoga                              Union by bodily mastering the breath
•       Raja Yoga                                Union by mastering the mind                

Yoga brings harmony to the body, mind and spirit by encouraging good energy flow and activating Prana (life force) within us.  Yoga works through the practice of ansana (yogic postures), meditation, breathing effectively, hygiene, diet, visualization, ethical behavior, and service to others.  Through devotional practice one helps purify the body, mind and spirit thereby reaching toward their higher self.  Yoga also helps  us to cultivate contentment, compassion, and a sense of presence and belonging. Yoga brings us to our authentic self as an expression of God and the I AM.