The word yoga as commonly understood in the West refers to the practice of asanas (postures). This asana practice, known as Hatha Yoga, is the basis from which other schools of yoga developed. Yoga has different uses and meanings to different people. Some people practice yoga as a form of weight loss and to build a strong physique, or for the healing of an ailment, or for relieving stress and anxiety and inducing mental calmness and peace of mind. Others might look to yoga to improve the quality and depth of personal and work relationships. Others still may look to yoga to find the meaning of existence. Yoga can help in all these areas as it benefits the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual components in every human being.
However, the ultimate goal of yoga is to prepare the body and mind for experiencing the higher states of awareness and consciousness and to create new possibilities, new ways of thinking and new ways of living. Good health, wealth, peace of mind, contentment and mental clarity are a few of the side effects of a regular practice of yoga. It help you achieve maximal happiness and fulfillment in life, no matter what your religious or belief system may be. Through dedicated personal effort, a yoga practice will develop deeper sensitivity and awareness to internal and external surroundings.
The ancient science of yoga is a most valuable inheritance and is essential in today’s society. It prepares and trains the body and mind to experience the awakening of the inner potential bio-energy – Kundalini Shakti. This Kundalini energy, when awakened, will activate the non-mechanical parts of the brain and the deeper strands of DNA, allowing one to experience extraordinary energy, clarity, calmness, creativity, and ultimately, the experience of Completion, Enlightenment, Samadhi, or Nithyananda (eternal bliss). In the process, this energy awakens dormant powers which will support and guide you towards manifesting your reality and lead a fulfilling life.
The word yoga is also commonly defined as union with the divine. It is the uniting of Shiva consciousness with Shakti, Kundalini energy. When this ultimate union occurs at the sahasrara chakra, yoga happens.