Archive for September 21st, 2009

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

You read so much wonderful information about adopting a Yogic lifestyle. Over the past ten years, the news media and the medical community have both stepped forward with great praise for the benefits of adopting Yoga as a lifestyle.

While it can be agreed that Yoga is a science of life – it is also a way of life, which applies to all aspects of our existence. Some people may feel if they eat right, and exercise right, they are experiencing all that a Yogic lifestyle has to offer.

While it is true that diet and exercise are important factors in the quality of everyday life, there are many principles which are largely ignored within the Yamas and Niyamas. However, let’s look at one universal concept that is the bedrock of all forms of Yoga.

Many people know that Yoga means “union” or “unity,” but the point seems academic to many of us. The historic meaning of union has more value than the link between a chariot, driver, archer, and horses. While the war chariot was quite a formidable weapon in its day, humankind has the ability to do much more with the power of unity.

Unity within our being is what we first experience, as a result of Yoga practice. Once this is mastered, we may focus on unity with others, the world around us, the universe, or with God. Many of us overlook our ability to connect with others. Some of us would rather pursue intellectual or spiritual studies instead of connecting with people.

The point here is – if we meditate on a mountain top or in a cave, we might find complete bliss in a state of solitude. Yet most of us live in a world, where we interact with others, and put Yogic principles of unity, tolerance, and compassion into practice.

© Copyright 2009 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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