What is traditional Yoga?
The term "Yoga," derived from Sanskrit, signifies "Union". In Yoga philosophy, the body is considered a vehicle through which the soul embarks on a journey towards perfection. The physical aspect of Yoga, encompassing various postures known as Asanas, aims to enhance the body's flexibility and, more specifically, promote spinal health and strength. Both traditional HATHA Yoga and ASHTANGA Yoga adhere to a shared principle of holding specific body positions (Asanas) in a distinctive manner for a series of breaths, revitalising and harmonising the mind and body.
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The word Ashtanga is comprised of two Sanskrit words, Ashta and Anga. Ashta refers to the number eight, while Anga means limb or body part. Therefore, Ashtanga is the union of the eight limbs of yoga, into one complete, holistic system. he Ashtanga philosophy is to integrate all of the eight limbs of yoga, which include: Yama (moral codes), Niyama (self-discipline), Asana (posture), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (oneness with the self).
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In a traditional Yoga class, the sequence typically commences with Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutations, serving as a warm-up to prepare the body. Following this, standing and floor Asanas are practiced to further engage and stretch the body.
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Subsequently, Pranayama exercises are introduced, which involve controlled breathing to regulate the life force energy (Prana) and ignite an inner purification fire. Focus and concentration exercises follow, aiming to harness the senses and cultivate the ability to quiet the mind. This serves as a foundation for meditation.
Within this practice, Pratyahara is experienced—an ability to detach the mind from external disturbances by maintaining control over one's reactions. During Pratyahara, the five senses continue to detect external stimuli, yet they no longer disrupt the state of the mind.
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'When the body has been tempered by Asanas, when the mind has been refined by fir of Pranayama and when the senses have been brought under control by Pratyahara, the sadhaka (seeker) reaches the sixth stage, Dharana. In Dharana we create the conditions for the mind to focus its attention in a single direction, rather than wandering in various directions. It involves creating the necessary conditions for focused and unwavering mental attention.
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Dhyana represents the culmination of the meditation journey. It involves a deep state of focused awareness and concentration. During Dhyana, the practitioner typically directs their attention towards a specific mental object. This object could take various forms, such as the sensation of the breath or a repeated phrase known as a mantra. In traditional practices, the chosen mental object for meditation was often a divine or sacred entity.
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Samadhi is the highest state of consciousness one can achieve through meditation. It consists of a yoga practitioner reaching spiritual enlightenment where the self, the mind, and the object of meditation merge together into one.
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In essence, Yoga serves as a holistic approach to nurturing physical well-being, while also promoting mental and emotional harmony. By incorporating body postures, breathing techniques, and concentration and meditation practices, Yoga offers a comprehensive framework for individuals to cultivate overall well-being and achieve a state of inner equilibrium.
