Yoga

Ayurveda, Yoga and Tantra are all parts of the ancient life-disciplines that have been practiced in India for centuries. They find mention in the scriptures of the Vedas and Upnishads. Yoga is the the science of the Union with the divine, with Truth; Tantra is the most direct method of controlling the energy that creates the ultimate union with truth; and Ayurveda is the science of life. The purpose of each practice is to help the individual achieve longevity, rejuvenation and self-realisation. The object of the practice of Yoga and Tantra is liberation, although only certain disciplined individuals are able to achieve the ultimate goals through these practices. If Ayurveda is the science of the body, Yoga is the science of the body, Yoga is the science of spirit. They are sister sciences. The practice of Yoga is an important , natural, preventive measure to ensure good health. The practice of an ayurvedic regimen is a precursor to Yoga because it is only when the body is fit that the individual is ready to study the spiritual science of Yoga.

The father of Yoga, Patanjali,described eight areas of Yoga and Yogic practices as follows; the natural regulation of the nervous system; discipline; cleansing; postures; concentration; the awakening of awareness; and state of perfect equilibrium. Yogic exercises have both preventive and curative value. They bring man to the natural state of tranquility, which is equilibrium. Yogic practices help to bring natural order and balance to the neurohormones and the metabolism and improve the endocrine system and thus fortify one against stress. Yogic practices for the treatment of stress and stress-related disorders (such as hypertention, diabities, asthma and obesity) are remarkably effective.

Employing Ayurvrdic diagnosis and treatment, yogis deal effectively with these disorders. Ayurvrda indicates which type of yoga is suitable for different constitutions.

Considered a prerequisite for spiritual health, meditation forms part and parcel of yogic practice. It is known to bring awareness, harmony and natural order to life. It awakens the intelligence to make life happy, peaceful and creative intelligence is the benediction of meditation.

Meditation results in increased relaxation, unlocking the storehouse of energy within the body. Meditation can be incorporated into any form of mind training that calms the body, increases awareness and creates greater focus for any action that is sincere, pure and heartfelt.

Benefits of meditation include a greater sense of relaxation in both mind and body, Greater flexibility of thinking, an ability to meet situations with freshness and insight. From the standpoint of pure physical expression, it can help loosen the knots and tensions trapped in the body disturbing emotions. It can help to change both facial expression and body posture, thereby softening and strengthening at the same time. These are some of the possible results, but they are not the goals. Meditation helps strengthen the positive qualities of compassion, patience and wisdom and frees us of conflicting emotions and erroneous beliefs.

There are many forms of meditations silent sitting, chanting, praying, and walking meditation, meditation that uses visualization or focus on objects. Meditation can be found in almost every tradition in the world if one were to look into their more contemplative practices.

Samadhi is the state of highest equilibrium during meditation, when the individual consciousness merges into the cosmic consciousness. All limitations vanish, the individual consciousness empties itself and in that emptying process, consciousness expands. Life changes and daily living becomes a new and fresh experience. Life itself becomes meditation, for meditation it is not separate from life but a part of life. Creative intelligence begins to operate in the body, mind and consciousness and all problems dissolve in this new expanded awareness However, one should remember that all the beneficial results of committed and regular practice.

In the spiritual evolution of a man, Ayurveda is a foundation, Yoga is the body and Tantra is the head. It is necessary first to understand Ayurveda in order to experience the practices of Yoga and Tantra. Thus Ayurveda, Yoga and Tantra form an independent Trinity of life. None of these practices stand alone. The health of the body, min and consciousness depends on the knowledge and practice of these three in daily life.