What Is Yoga?

Throughout the ages, the science of Yoga has offered a system for all people to develop harmoniously the three aspects of their nature - physical, mental, and spiritual. This ancient and time-honored practice is also very much a part of the modern world. It is the subject of current scientific research on health, longevity, and increased mental proficiency. Yoga-derived exercises and techniques are the basis for physical therapy and stress-reduction programs.

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Yoga is an ancient science for a modern world. Medical research has been discovering anew the secrets of Yoga that have withstood the test of time (over 6,000 years). Yoga is referred to as a science, because it is not based on ones belief system, but is a scientific system that has been developed and perfected over the centuries. It is a scientific system of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual development. A holistic approach to optimum health. (When the practitioner applies a specific action or method there is a corresponding reaction).

The word Yoga originates from the ancient Sanskrit language and means union. The purpose of all Yoga training is to unite man and woman the finite, with the Infinite, Nature, God, or whatever one may call the ultimate reality.

There are four main paths of Yoga. The Karma Yoga path develops the giving hand of generosity, cultivating selflessness, serving all as oneself. The Bhakti Yoga path develops the heart, cultivating devotion or self surrender. The path of Inana Yoga develops one's will, reason, and discrimination. It’s known as the path that cultivates wisdom. Raja Yoga is known as the Royal scientific path, where one follows a step by step procedure to attain the goal of Yoga. Yoga Asanas, referred to as postures (gentle stretching exercises) called Hatha Yoga, is a specialized branch of Raja Yoga that teaches methods to promote health and longevity. This is the usual starting place for Yoga practice. It is not necessary to take up the other forms or paths of Yoga unless one so desires. They are not taught in the course or workshops.