‘YOGA’ – THE REAL IMPORT AND SIGNIFICANCE

‘YOGA’ – THE REAL IMPORT AND SIGNIFICANCE ‘India’s Unique and Invaluable Gift to Humanity’ The Indian Prime Minister, Hon’ble Narendra Modi’s, appeal to the world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly to adopt an ‘International Yoga Day’ was timely (S.D). An invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition to humanity, yoga is the 5,000-year-old Indian physical, mental and spiritual practice that aims at transforming body and mind, he said.

‘It does not confine to exercise but is a practice to discover the sense of oneness with your Self, the world and the nature. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between man and nature; a holistic approach to health and well being’ (IE). Further, Modi pointed out, India’s ethos of harmony with nature, yoga can help revitalize the environment in an age of globalisation and rapid development. ‘The holistic approach to life that yoga fosters can contribute not only to improve the quality of life but also to foster greater harmony among people and between man and nature. By changing our mechanistic lifestyle and refining consciousness, it can help us deal with climatic and social changes for a healthier life.

The nation's wisdom of millennia emphasised harmonious culture of prudence, of doing more with less, of taking only as much as required from nature and of no wastage. It is particularly relevant for today’s world struggling to manage global commons and achieve sustainable development. The Indian ethos of harmony with nature, of treating nature’s bounties as sacred, of seeking a dialogue with nature rather than planning to dominate and exploit, it has a special relevance today. Globalisation requires a free flow of ideas and embracing the good ones from all quarters. India, as a millennia old civilization and with its pluralistic, democratic polity, has a lot to contribute to enrich the global discourse of ideas’ (NB).

There is an overwhelming response to Narendra Modi’s call for commemorating an International Day of Yoga. About 130 countries (170 nations, as on Dec 7, 2014) have joined as co-sponsors to an India-led UN General Assembly resolution recognising the benefit of yoga: ‘Yoga provides a holistic approach to health and well-being,’ echoing Modi’s remarks in his address. The resolution would also proclaim June 21 as the ‘International Day of Yoga’. It would recognise that wider dissemination of information about the benefits of practising yoga would be helpful for the health of the world population and invite all member and observer states, organizations of the United Nations system and other international and regional bodies to observe the ‘International Day’ in order to raise awareness of the benefits of practising Yoga. It would also emphasize the importance of individuals and populations making healthier choices and following lifestyle patterns that would foster good health (ZNI).

II Yoga is in fact a science of all-round human development – physical, mental, moral and, above all, spiritual. Indeed it is India’s unique and invaluable gift to humanity. The only criterion is that one should understand and practice yoga correctly, learning it from an authentic, traditional yoga teacher, and be blessed thereby. Truly speaking, yoga cannot be treated a part time hobby or vocation. It should be a yoga way of life – our whole life should be a continuous, uninterrupted procedure of yoga. As a mahatma has rightly pointed out, ‘a life imbued with the true spirit of yoga can bring light where there is darkness, love where there is hate, order where there is chaos, and happiness where there is misery. Such a one, truly and totally dedicated to yoga, will be able to lead a fulfilling family life, a value-oriented professional life, and a responsive social life. Life fulfills its supreme purpose when it is imbued with the true spirit of yoga, and anchored in the eternal verity’.

A word about the present-day ‘yoga fad’: Yoga is no doubt popular in the West, US in particular, but some yoga teachers and yoga centers do not care to acknowledge 1

the Indian origin of yoga. In their haste to exploit it to the hilt, yoga seems to be getting commercialized, and taught as a ‘health aid’ and a’ beauty aid’, with some ‘topsy-turvy poses’, and ‘blowing the nose’, which is not the sole purpose of yoga, though health is undoubtedly the byproduct of a sincere and regular practice of yoga.

The ultimate end and aim of yoga is to know one’s own true nature which is essentially Divine (sat-chit-ananda), and the goal of life is to discover, realise and manifest this Divinity, in our work-a-day world.

In the words of Swami Vivekananda, there are various ways of realising the Divine.

These methods have the generic name of Yoga. These Yogas, though divided into various groups, can principally be classed into four; and as each is only a method leading indirectly to the realisation of the Divine, they are suited to different temperaments (CW). Both the goal and the methods employed for reaching it are called Yoga (CW). ‘Every man must develop according to his own nature. As every science has its methods so has every religion. Methods of attaining the end of our religion are called Yoga, and the different forms of Yoga that we teach are adapted to the different natures and temperaments of men. We classify them in the following way, under four heads: 1.

Karma Yoga The manner in which a man realizes his own divinity through works and duty; 2. Bhakti Yoga The realization of a divinity through devotion to and love of a personal God; 3. Raja Yoga The realization of divinity through control of mind; 4.

Jnana Yoga The realization of man’s own divinity through knowledge’ (CW).

In this illustration, the monosyllable (OM) superimposed on the bosom of the person symbolizes our inherent, true nature, which is Pure Awareness Absolute. The prayer: ‘tamaso maa jyotirgamaya’ – ‘Lead me from darkness to Light’, quoted in the inner orb, is indicative of the human quest – an intense aspiration to discover, realize and manifest our true nature which is Divine (sat-chitananda). The meditative posture, the brilliant sun, the lotus, and the waves beneath – are symbolic of mystic communion (Raja Yoga), pursuit of knowledge (Jnana Yoga), devotional absorption (Bhakti Yoga) and selfless service (Karma Yoga), respectively. The illustration thus reminds us of the need to discover, realize and manifest our true nature, by cultivating an integrated life, with due emphasis on pursuit of knowledge, devotional absorption, mystic communion and selfless service.

‘Be and Make’ is Swami Vivekananda’s exhortation to us to unfold our true nature through the cultivation of an integrated life, even as we help others march towards that glorious consummation (vg.org).

‘The ‘Yoga Vidya’ is as old as the human existence handed down to us from one generation to other in the form of Living Tradition, systematized around 200 BC by the Sage Patanjali in the form of Yoga Sutras commonly known as ‘Ashtanga Yoga’. This Sutra treatise of Patanjali is considered to be the representative of Classical Yoga. An attempt has to be made to understand the true import of ‘Ashtanga Yoga’ in its classical perspective simultaneously drawing the attention towards its missing part in contemporary understanding and practice of yoga’.

‘To realize our divine nature is the purpose of yoga. Yoga has been misconceived / misinterpreted and reduced to a few exercises undermining its spiritual dimension. The relative position of the postures (asanas), has been elevated, so as to lead people to believe that the term ‘Yoga’ refers to physical postures only, as well as, a few breathing exercises in the name of pranayama and that the goal of these is nothing but physical fitness – terribly misleading and confusing people about the true nature of Classical

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Yoga. Such groups of people claim that they give more importance to Hatha Yoga, as well as, to Ashtanga Yoga but in my opinion this exclusive one sided emphasis on a few Hathayogic practices (like asana and pranayama) need be re-thought because if Hathayogic practices are not leading to Raja Yoga then they will be considered merely a series of gymnastic exercises. Therefore, there is a need to re-define the meaning of Yoga and to clarify its purpose so that the pure and pristine message of classical yoga may be understood in its true perspective’.

‘Raja Yoga is a scientifically worked out path which not only addresses the physical level, mental level and spiritual level but also helps in transcending all the relative levels of existence to reach the Absolute level. The quintessence of this unique science of Raja Yoga has been expressed by Swami Vivekananda in beautiful way. He says: ‘According to yoga philosophy, it is through ignorance that the soul has been joined with nature. The aim is to get rid of nature’s control over us. That is the goal of all religions. Each soul is potentially divine. The goal is to manifest this Divinity within, by controlling nature, external and internal. Do this either by work, or worship, or psychic control, or philosophy – by one or more or all of these – and be free.’ Absolute freedom from the shackles of worldly miseries is the ultimate goal of humankind. The science of yoga leads to a state of eternal freedom where one can live happily forever relishing the elixir of infinite existence’ (Rajeshwar Mukhopadhyay – Research Officer, KaivalyaDhama).

An earnest and regular practice of Patanjali Yoga (‘Raja Yoga’, as Swami Vivekananda calls it), beginning with yama and niyama, the initial two limbs of yoga – an essential prerequisite, seeking to inculcate moral and ethical values in one’s day-to-day life, and particularly to purity of one’s personal life, culminates in Self-knowledge (atmasaakshaatkara). And then and then only one can lead a happy, contented and socially useful and peaceful life, well equipped with double efficiency, viz. the ‘inner character efficiency’ and the ‘outer productive efficiency’.

III What is said above, we hope, will be useful for creating a general awareness of the real import and significance of yoga about which there prevail superficial notions. In other words, the purpose of this article is to clear ‘the common misconception about yoga that it is all about some physical postures. Yoga should never be mistaken for any mode of exercise, which is operational only at a physical level. Yoga is a way of life; it is not removed from it. Yoga, in fact, is the means to overcome all the problems arising out of our frustrations, disappointments and other limitations in life’ (E.S). ‘To realize our divine nature is the purpose of yoga. Yoga has been misconceived / misinterpreted and reduced to a few exercises undermining its spiritual dimension’ (R.M). For those who want to know more about the Yoga, in its different aspects, many references to useful resource have been appended to this article. In particular, regarding ‘Astana Yoga’ reference is given (http://tinyurl.com/lydsoa5) in the course of the article. Also, given are references to Swami Vivekananda’s work on ‘Raja Yoga’ (http://tinyurl.com/ly2rxa9), and the other yogas. It should, however, be noted that the initial step is to ‘live yoga’ in our thoughts, words and deeds, by strictly adhering to "yama" and "niyama" whereby we consciously endeavour to be harmonious in our interactions and dealings with others in our day to day social life and also to be tranquil and serene in our inner life.

Asana, dharana and dhyana are possible and will be fruitful only thereafter, and this will gradually lead to inner absorption and uninterrupted focus on the truth within, which in due course will result in getting firmly grounded in the Ultimate Reality. With this full knowledge and understanding alone one can lead a peaceful and blissful life, imbued with universal love, prompting for spontaneous service of one and all. And, as already pointed out, one who is totally dedicated to yoga will be able to lead a fulfilling life, and will thus be a harbinger of light, love, and happiness. In short, life fulfills its supreme purpose when imbued with the true spirit of yoga, and anchored in the eternal verity.

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IV Here below is a list of a few select books on yoga. They will provide the aspirants with a comprehensive and authentic view and knowledge of yoga, both theoretical and practical: COMMON SENSE ABOUT YOGA: The main object of this book is to discuss the science of Yoga in as simple and rational a manner as possible and also to debunk some of the nonsense that continues to be said and believed on the subject. A must for all those are eager to clarify their conception about Yoga - See more.

YOGA FOR BEGINNERS: Swami Gnaneswarananda, the founder of the Vivekananda Vedanta Society in Chicago, has taken enormous pains to explain the essence of traditional yoga in a concise lucid and lovely language shorn of all technicalities in his book “Yoga for Beginners”. His up-to-date phraseology laced with humour can be understood and enjoyed by all enquiring minds. - See more.

YOGA PSYCHOLOGY: The present volume, Yoga Psychology, comprises the lectures on the Yogasutras of Rishi Patanjali in a systematic and scientific manner, with copious references and glossaries of Vyasa and Vachaspati Misra. They were delivered by Swami Abhedananda before a talented audience in America in 1920. The word ‘Yoga’ means the communion of the petty self with the higher universal Self, and ‘psychology’ is the science of the psyche or soul. The function of the psychology of Yoga is to prepare the mind, so as to catch a glimpse of the resplendent Atman, or to appreciate the real status and undying glory of the Absolute. The book discloses the secret of bringing under control the disturbing modifications of mind, and thus helps one to concentrate and meditate upon the transcendental Atman, which is the fountainhead of knowledge, intelligence and bliss. - See more.

HOW TO BE A YOGI: How to be a Yogi is a book on science and practice of different types of Yoga which are interconnected with religion and philosophy and should be called into practice. This book forwards the laws and principles as well as methods of Yoga-practice, based on the teachings of Patanjali. It contains nine illuminating chapters on different types of Yoga along with their philosophy, psychology, and science. In the introductory chapter, the swami has defined what a true religion is.

He says that true religion is not based on mere theory or speculation, but on practice. Religion really prepares the ground of divine spirituality which does neither depend on mere reading of the scriptures, nor on the theological and speculative discussion of the shastras, and not on intellect and reason, but on divine realization or immediate awareness of the unchangeable Reality - See more.

YOGA (Asanas/Pranayama): Divergent is the methods of Yoga. Unless one sees the underlying unity and harmony, one is apt to lose track amidst diversities. This central note of harmony was emphatically sounded in the speeches of Swami Vivekananda, the Present course on Yogic practice offered by the Vivekananda Kendra are tailored for an all round development of the physical, mental and components of man See more.

YOGA FOR BEGINNERS (VIDEO): Physical health is the basic thing that is required for success or to achieve anything great. Regular practice of Yogasanas (Yogic Postures) helps one to attain good physical health. Asan is one of the preliminary steps of Yogasastra of 8 steps propounded by Sage Patanjali for the physical mental moral and spiritual well-being of man as a whole. These simple Yogic Exercises do not drain energy from the body. They not only conserve the energy but also produce extra energy which revitalizes the body. This DVD contains 1.Relaxing Postures. 2. Preparatory Exercise. 3. Suryanamaskar. 4.

Yogasans. A. Standing B. Sitting C. Prone D. Supine E. Upside down Postures - See more.

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YOGA FOR THE WORLD: (Authentic Yoga Literature).

BOOKS ON YOGA PHILOSOPHY: (ChennaiMath).

MEDITATION AND SPIRITUAL LIFE: ‘Be bold and face the truth’ said Swami Vivekananda. Here is a book that teaches us how to do it. Here is a book for the guidance of sincere spiritual aspirants who have heard the divine call, who have in response to it accepted God-realization as the highest goal of life and who consider no sacrifice too great for the attainment of that goal. It is an invaluable guide to practical spirituality - See more.

V Given below are a few links to Videos on ‘Yoga for Kids’ (English). ‘Yoga Animation for Kids” (Hindi), are brought out by a Yoga Guru, an authority on yoga, who is also the founder of a renowned Yoga Establishment in India. Some other links on ‘History of Yoga’, ‘Yoga's Roots in India’, ‘The Great Yoga Debate’ etc. are also given: YOGA FOR KIDS: -1- -2KIDS YOGA: -1FUN YOGA FOR KIDS: -1YOGA ANIMATION FOR KIDS: -1- -2- -3- -4HISTORY OF YOGA: -1- -2- -3‘TAKE BACK YOGA’: -1- -2THE GREAT YOGA DEBATE: -1- -2WHO OWNS YOGA? : -1- -2‘HONOR THY HERITAGE’: -1WHO'S STEALING YOGA? : -1YOGA: IT'S NOT ABOUT OWNERSHIP, IT'S ABOUT ORIGINS: -1YOGA'S ROOTS IN INDIA: -1YOGA'S ROOTS: -1BRINGING TO LIGHT YOGA'S ROOTS: -1INDIA APPOINTS MINISTER OF YOGA AND TRADITIONAL MEDICINE: -1- -2GUINNESS WORLD RECORD OF A FRENCH YOGI: -120 MILLION AMERICANS FOLLOW PATANJALI: -1HOW YOGA HAS BECOME A GLOBAL PHENOMENON: -1PROMOTING YOGA IN INDIA: -1WHO OWNS YOGA? (DOCUMENTARY): -1KRISHNAMACHARYA & B.K.S. IYENGAR IN 1938 WITH YOGA SUTRAS (IN SIX PARTS): -1HINDU-AMERICAN TULSI GABBARD PROMISES NARENDRA MODI TO SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY Washington: The first Hindu-American Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard has promised Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead an effort towards a Congressional resolution in support of International Yoga Day. (IBNLlive) * * * (VIDEO) DAVID FRAWLEY (PANDIT VAMADEVA SHASTRI) ON YOGA-VEDANTA, AYURVEDA, VEDIC ASTROLOGY AND THEIR INTERCONNECTIONS. David Frawley (American Institute of Vedic Studies) interviewed by India's National Channel Doordarshan. In this candid interview he speaks intensely about his understanding of Vedas, Shastras and Upanishads, he even explains his love for India and it's enviable culture and history. The American Institute of Vedic Studies is a web-based educational center providing a broad range of courses, resources and publications for an international audience. It focuses on Ayurveda, Yoga-Vedanta, Vedic astrology and their interconnections. It correlates Veda and Tantra along with the background system of Hinduism or ‘Sanatana Dharma’. It emphasizes bringing together the greater Yoga tradition in an integral manner with regard to its Vedic origins. (VedaNet)

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INVOCATION TO SAGE PATANJALI Sage Patanjali has penned the ancient Indian heritage of Yoga through his treatise (The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali), which is an encompassing study of the subject which consists of just 196 sutras (aphorisms).The following is an invocation of the blessing of Patanjali. This is often recited as an introduction of meditation, Yoga classes, Ayurvedic treatments and lectures on the Yoga Sutras.

– B. K. S. IYENGAR

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॥ yogena cittasya padena vacam malam sarirasya ca vaidyakena yopakarottam pravaram muninam patanjalim pranajaliranato'smi Let us bow before the noblest of sages Patanjali, who gave yoga for serenity and sanctity of mind, grammar for clarity and purity of speech and medicine for perfection of health.

he isha sab sukhi ho koyi na ho dukhaari sab ho niroga bhagavan dhana dhanya ke bhandari sab bhdra bhaava dekhe kalyaana ke vrati ho dukhiya na koyi hove jagatime praanadhaari

"Yoga synchronises the mind, body and soul..."

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PM WELCOMES UN DECISION TO DECLARE 21ST JUNE AS INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA! (177 NATIONS CO-SPONSOR THE RESOLUTION) On Thursday 11th December 2014 the Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modi expressed immense joy on the United Nations passing the resolution to declare 21st June as International Day of Yoga. The Prime Minister thanked the 177 nations across the world that cosponsored the resolution.

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TEXT OF UNGA RESOLUTION A/69/L.17 READ>>> * * *

YOGA IS NOT ONLY A WAY TOWARDS ROG MUKTI BUT ALSO TOWARDS BHOG MUKTI: CM AT INAUGURATION OF LAKULISH YOGA UNIVERSITY (MAY 23, 2013)

Shri Narendra Modi speaks on the power of Yoga at the opening of the Lakulish Yoga University (Yoga has been a strong influence on Shri Modi’s life. Here is a speech by Shri Modi in which he talks about Yoga. The occasion was the inauguration of Lakulish Yoga University in Ahmedabad in 2013).

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"I SLEEP VERY LESS. YOGA, PRANAYAM AND DEEP BREATHING KEEP ME ENERGETIC THROUGHOUT THE DAY!"--NARENDRA MODI (SEP 3, 2012) Shri Narendra Modi answers Mr. Manoj Kesarwani from Qatar on his question "How many hours do you sleep in a day? What is the secret behind your energy not for one, two but eleven whole years?"

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