Yoga, the oldest science of life, is not only a great
form of body conditioning, but, it can teach you to bring stress under
control, not only on a physical level, but on mental and spiritual levels
too.
HATHA YOGA is world renowned for preventing disease,
keeping all of the body systems flexible and supple, and lifting the
spirit. It is one of the few modalities of physical exercise that coaxes
the awareness within. Yoga is used to calm the body/mind connection
and soothe the nervous system.
The human body can be compared to a car. There are
five things that any automobile needs to run properly, whether it is
a Rolls Royce or a rusty old car:
- lubrication,
- a cooling system,
- electric current,
- fuel, and
- a sensible driver behind the
wheel.
In yoga, the asanas or postures lubricate the body.
They keep the muscles and joints running smoothly, tone all the internal
organs, and increase circulation, without creating fatigue. The body
is cooled by complete relaxation while pranayama or yogic breathing
increases prana, the electric current. Fuel is provided by food, water,
and the air you breathe. Lastly, you have meditation, which stills the
mind, the driver of the body. By meditating, you learn to control the
body - your physical vehicle. Anyone can practice yoga, no matter what
their age, condition, or religion. Young or old, sick or fit, all can
benefit from this wonderful discipline.