Home > Article Index > Yoga > Yoga Explained
Yoga Explained
The Definition of Yoga
There is no single definition of yoga. In order to experience truth through yoga, we must study its classical definitions and reflect on our own understanding of it.
If we wish to connect to the intuitive, creative part of us, and realize the eternal Self at our core, we need to consider what yoga really is. Each definition of yoga reveals part of the ocean of knowledge and experience that forms the yogic path.
The Sanskrit Definition of Yoga
In Sanskrit, the word ‘yoga’ is used to signify any form of connection. In a philosophical sense, however, yoga means the conscious connection of the limited little egoic self with the unlimited, eternal, higher Self. Conscious connection to something allows us to feel and experience that thing, person, or experience.
The Definition of Yoga as a Body of Techniques
Yoga is a science, that is, it is a body of techniques that lead us to consciously connect with ourselves and with life. It is also the actual experience of connection that results from practicing the techniques. There are many traditional yogic paths that facilitate connection to the highest truth and awaken our own consciousness, including tantra, mantra, laya, kundalini, bhakti, jnana, karma yoga, and so on.
Patanjali's Definition of Yoga
The great sage Patanjali, in the system of Raja Yoga, gave one of the best definitions of yoga. He said, ‘Yoga is the blocking (nirodha) of mental modifications (chitta vritti) so that the seer (drashta) re-identifies with the (higher) Self.’ Patanjali's system has come to be the epitome of Classical Yoga Philosophy and is one of the 6 or 7 major philosophies of India.
The Definition of Yoga in Hatha Yoga Texts
The definition of yoga in the Hatha Yoga texts is the union of the upward force (prana) and the downward force (apana) at the navel centre (manipura chakra). Hatha yoga teaches us to master the totality of our life force, which is also called prana. By learning how to feel and manipulate the life force, we access the source of our being.
The Definition of Yoga in Kundalini Yoga Texts
The definition of yoga in kundalini yoga is the union of the mental current (ida) and the pranic current (pingala) in the third eye (ajna chakra) or at the base chakra (mooladhara chakra). This unifies duality in us by connecting body and mind and leads to the awakening of spiritual consciousness.
Awakening of Self
our favourite definition of yoga is that it is any method that allows us to wake up to who or what we really are and to what life is all about. Anything that allows us to be more aware of ourselves and to feel connected to ourselves and life is a form of yoga.
The Many Branches of Yoga
Each branch of yoga is like a single facet of a diamond. Each plays a part in the overall luster and brilliance of the whole.
There are several classical branches on the tree of yoga. All branches of yoga are part of a complete system of self-development and Self-realization, which forms a powerful path to higher consciousness.
The branches of yoga are wonderfully diverse paths that ultimately lead to the same result ~ union with the Self and with life.
Each branch of yoga comes from the same source, and each shares a common aim, the enlightenment of the human mind and the self-creation of happiness, self-knowledge and ultimate fulfilment through Self-realization.
The main branches of yoga include hatha yoga, mantra yoga, laya yoga, raja yoga, karma yoga, bhakti yoga, jnana yoga, tantra yoga, yantra yoga, kundalini yoga, kriya yoga.
There are also other lesser-known branches such as guru yoga (connection to higher consciousness as guru), anna yoga (the yoga of food).
Each type of yoga is suited to different personalities, temperaments and body types. Not everyone wants to do yoga postures (asana). So it is important to find and to follow the branch of yoga that best suits us. This allows our inner growth to unfold naturally and spontaneously.
As this process unfolds we may become naturally attracted to study other branches and styles of yoga in order to add to our skill and knowledge base. As we master one branch of yoga it becomes easier to explore others.
Understanding the Context of Yoga
It is essential to understand the context of yoga to be successful in practicing its techniques and methods.
By providing an understanding of the essence of yoga and what is possible, context gives us the ability to create an intelligent aim for yoga practice.
Yoga is contextualized by:
- Its aim to unite the individual self with the higher Self
- The environment in which it was originally developed
- The environment in which it is now being practiced
The highest aim in yoga is the awakening of higher consciousness, and ultimately it is this aim that contextualizes all practice. Holistic health and profound inner happiness, which are often aims that people bring to yoga, are side-effects of practicing yoga with the aim of awakening and expanding consciousness.
History and philosophy of yoga bring us precious knowledge of what we can achieve through yoga.
History tells us about the achievements of great practitioners of the past. Philosophy details the complete path of yoga, from its simplest beginnings to its exalted conclusion. History and philosophy give the perfect context to understand how to apply techniques.
When we practice yoga, we often focus on technique alone. Techniques form the content of yoga; they create the body of the science and the philosophy. However, context adds another level of understanding.
Without context we can never really master yoga or any other art or science.
For example, an artist learns all the classic principles of their form before learning to improvise and find true creativity. Without training in the classical skills of their art as well as understanding how their art has developed, artists do not have a foundation on which to base their creativity. Most accomplished artists have developed mastery by first learning the context.
Practicing technique with an understanding of context takes our practice to higher, and deeper levels.
One side effect of understanding context is that we develop a sense of being linked to a greater and deeper purpose. Having a context in which to practice the content, the techniques of yoga, is essential to allow practice to mature and come to fruition. This process brings meaning, depth and fulfilment into our lives.
Understanding context allows us to adapt the form of yoga we are practicing with intelligence. We can employ intelligent and creative flexibility to modify our practices so that we meet our needs in each moment. We also meet the needs of the times while fulfilling the aim of yoga.
About the Author(s):
In 2004, Dr Swami Shankardev and Jayne Stevenson decided to pool their talents to create Big Shakti. They co-create various seminars and workshops, which Swami Shankardev presents throughout Australia, USA, Europe and India.
More...
|