Legend has it that the science of Yoga was first expounded by Lord Shiva who taught more than 8,40,000 asanas (postures). The first reference to Yoga appears in the Rig Veda. However it was the great saint Patanjali who first systematised it in his Yoga Sutras. Patanjali spoke of 8 Limbs of Yoga which include ethical disciplines (yama and niyama), physical postures and breathing (asana and pranayama) and meditative withdrawl and concentration (pratyahara, dharana and dhyana). These culminate in samadhi, the state of ultimate bliss.

It was Hatha yogis like Matseyendranath who laid emphasis on physical purification through posture, breath expansion and internal cleansing (kriya). They believed that unless the physical and subtle bodies were first purified and strengthened through these methods, one could never reach true meditative awareness. It is important to remember, therefore, that the postures of Yoga were never meant as an end in themselves, nor for mere physical fitness; they were always the stepping stones to the real goal of spiritual realisation.

Hatha Yoga works on several levels at once. On the physical level, it makes our bodies strong, balanced and light, and rejuvenates tired limbs. Internal organs are massaged and toned, and vital glands like the thyroid and parathyriod are made to function properly. At the psychic level, we become more relaxed and more aware. Through the practice of awareness-in-movement, we become able to observe our minds and bodies, and become less implicated in our inner turmoil.

This growing awareness naturally leads one to meditation. At the emotional level, we are able to release harmful emotions and psychological blocks. Emotional wounds leave traces in the body in the form of knots, misalignments and tensions. Through yoga, these emotions are freed to rise to the surface and disappear. It is in this sense that Yoga is a holistic science and treats the individual as a psycho-spiritual and physical whole. Yoga works on all the chakras (energy points).

Yoga is not a religion, but is a powerful technique for self-realisation. It teaches us to live in the present, without worry, stress or anger. We make peace with ourselves, and from this inner harmony, comes peace in our relationships. This makes Yoga of immense relevance to our age. It is our hope at the Universal Yoga Centre that by studying this great science, you may find the true meaning of life, and go on to make the world a better place. May you be well and happy !

"Equanamity of mind is Yoga" - Bhagawad Gita

"Dexterity in action is Yoga" - Bhagawad Gita

"Yoga is total silencing of the mind" - Patanjali