Is Yoga secular or spiritual? Is it an exercise routine or a spiritual path? The answers are indisputable, depending on who you ask. The student who has practiced Yoga for exercise will take issue with the answer given by the spiritual seeker who practices Yoga to be free from suffering.
We must look to the origins of this tradition for insights into the purpose of Yoga. The ancient Yoga authority, Patanjali, outlines a clear path for Yoga, a path that leads to liberation. In his Yoga Sutras of 196 succinct verses, he proposes 8 limbs sometimes called steps on the path (2.29). The physical exercises called Asanas is Limb number 3. Other Limbs include behaviour, character, breath, and mind. One could argue looking at the 8 limbs that only one limb relates to the physical body.
Today in our world where what is visible is King it is easy to believe Yoga is nothing more than an exercise routine practised by women and men to become healthy or keep fit. In days gone by Yoga was known for its power to transform. In fact the very first verse of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras defines Yoga as the restriction of the fluctuations of consciousness, sometimes translated mind.
Many of us practise Yoga unaware of its origins and aims. We practice because our bodies relish the stretches and challenges. Our muscles are toned; we breathe better; our digestion and elimination improve; we manage pain better; we feel stronger. Our physical health improves. It is also true that we feel less stressed when we practise. Anxiety decreases, we don't get as angry, and mental clarity improves. Yoga fosters mind-body wellness.
Yoga students who practice Yoga as an exercise may proclaim only its physical benefits only. In time they will come to realize the positive impact on the mind; and to notice a shift in behaviour and improved relationships. At some point they realize the connection between the mind and body. They come to know that thoughts and feelings affect the body and to they gain some insight into mind-body wellness.
There was a time when I would have argued forcefully that Yoga was more beneficial to the mind. For then I practiced Raja Yoga meditation only. Some years later I would have insisted that one must definitely practice Hatha Yoga to heal and nurture the body. Fortunately I discovered it is really not an either or situation.
Yoga students can practice both yoga poses and meditation for mind-body wellness. And are we not more than mind and body? Yoga explains that we are and states that the light of knowledge is necessary to free us from suffering.
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