1. The Meaning of Yoga
Yoga derived from Sanscrit word “Yuj” which literally means “union” or “joining.” Union with the unchanging reality liberates the spirit from all senses of separation, freeing it from the illusion of time, space, and causation. Yoga is an ancient art based on an extremely subtle science, of the body, mind, and soul. The prolonged practice of Yoga will, in time, lead the student to a sense of peace and a feeling of being at one the environment. In other words, yoga works to “yoke” the mind and the body and help individual to achieve union with the divine nature.
The purpose of all different aspects of the practice of yoga is to reunite the individual self (jiva) with the Absolute or pure consciousness (Brahman). Yoga is aimed to calm the chaos of conflicting impulses.
2. Pranayama
Prana is energy, and ayama is storing and distribution of that energy. Prana is the life force which permeates both the individual as wll as the universe at all levels. It is at once physical, sexual, mental, intellectual, spiritual, and cosmic. Prana, the breath, and the mind are inextricably linked to each other.
Central to all practice of yoga is the movement of prana, the life force, or vital energy. Prana is in matter, but it is not matter. It is in air, but it is not the oxygen. It is a subtle form of energy that is carried in air, food, water, and sunlight, and animates all form of matter.
Through the practice of asanas and pranayama, more prana is taken in and stored in the body, bringing great vitality and strength.
3. Meditation
Meditation is the practice by which there is constant observation of the mind. It means focusing the mind on one point, stilling the mind in order to perceive the Self. By stopping the waves of thoughts one comes to understand the true nature and discover the wisdom and tranquility that lie within.
Meditation is the simple and exact process of becoming aware of who you are. It is the practice of gently freeing yourself from the worries that gnaw at you, so that you can be free and respond to the need of the moment and experience the joy of being fully present.