Yoga Releases Your Creative Potential In Life

September 2008

Yoga is an ancient art based on a subtle science of uniting the body, mind, and soul. Yoga which was once accepted by a select few is now universally practiced. Due to the therapeutic affects on both mind and body, yoga has enabled many practitioners the enjoyment of a profound sense of peace and well-being.

Yoga is not a simple pose or exercise in stretching but is a complete lifestyle. It is a philosophy of life that teaches us how to achieve calmness and helps us to channel energy throughout our entire being uniting the mind and body in total harmony. The basic teaching of yoga is that we are not this body but rather the body is a vehicle for our soul.

With regular practice, yoga can teach us how to develop a much deeper awareness of both our physical and psychological states. The benefit is a greater ease and ability to cope with everyday stresses and situations. Many words can be used to describe yoga such as, inner peace, calm, tranquility, well-being, oneness, higher consciousness, self-realization, happiness and more. However the true value of yoga is one that must be experienced.

While the overall goal of many yoga practices is to assist in awakening spiritual awareness, there also are many physical benefits such as improved functioning of all bodily systems and strengthening of the immune system. Other benefits are a slowing down of the age process and a reduction in stress. Clearer thinking, enhanced creativity, and an appreciation for life are also benefits of a regular yoga practice.
One of the major components of yoga is the “Asanas”. The asanas, or physical postures, help us to develop physically and spiritually by establishing communication between our external and internal selves. It involves a thought process that allows a balance between movement and resistance.

For newcomers to yoga, the beginning stage of practicing asanas should be taken slowly. As you learn, be mindful of correct movement and alignment. I will highlight monthly what the important points are to stay focused on. Establishing a strong foundation and stability within a pose will be our goal. Once our base is established, it is then that we will see how our mind is affected by the changes of our body.

The highest aim of yoga is realization of the true self. This leads to cosmic Love, a feeling of oneness with all & the experience of pure being, unflawed knowledge & infinite bliss.

In next months issue we will begin our practice!

Lisa Daniel is a fitness professional with many years in the health care field. Lisa is a figure competitor, certified Yoga and Pilates instructor, licensed Massage Therapist and Reiki practitioner. She believes that to have true health and fitness we must enhance and balance mind, body, and spirit. Her goal is continued spiritual evolvement and the opportunity to share her knowledge and experience with others.