Yoga is a way of disciplined optimistic approach to life, an inward journey, achieving unity of Jeevathma (individual soul) and Paramathma (Supreme soul).

Yoga is the union of body, mind and soul:- balancing, harmonizing, purifying and strengthening. It ‘s the one well defined way to perfect health, perfect mind control and perfect peace with one's own Self, the nature, universe and God.

Rishis (sages) through ages evolved various yogic practices attaining eternal peace and happiness.

Few Yogic practices like

• Hatha yoga
• Karma yoga
• Raja yoga
• Jnana yoga
• Bhakthi yoga

Health is the essential primary prerequisite for all the attainments in life –spiritual and material.

Hatha Yoga develops, controls and strengthens the body to render it a more fitting instrument for the realization of the higher self. Yogic physical culture which is an initial step in the practice of hatha yoga ensures physical and mental health . Yogi develops a steady mind for positive living. Hatha Yoga comprises the Asanas, bandhas, mudras and kriyas.

Regularity of practice, Order of asanas, Time of practice, place or space set aside for yoga, Dress that doesn’t restrict the movements, Attitude of mind, Physical Limits without strain, is the basic code .

In Astanga yoga it’s emphasized that the practice of the asanas along with the practice of yama & niyama confers the best results. The practice of Yama & Niyama are meant for both physical or material level and for mental levels.

Yama - the five restraints like 1.Ahimsa or non-violence 2.Satya or truth 3.Brahmacharya ,the control of senses 4.Asteya or non stealing 5.Aparigraha,the non-coveting nature.

Niyama - the five qualities to be observed 1.Saucha or cleanliness 2.Santosha ,samtripthi or contentment 3.Tapas ,austerity 4.Swadhyaya ,self study 5. Samarpan ,the total surrender to God.

The practice of yama and niyama followed by asanas or postures gradually progressing through pranayama (control of breath)through pratyahara(control over the senses)reaching for Dharana (concentration). Dhyana or meditation slowly buds and will bloom beautifully into the super conscious state of samadhi.

The regular practice of 'Path of yoga' enables you to enhance and unfold the energy within you, enables the yogi to fulfill all of life responsibilities while at the same time experiencing profound enjoyment and bliss. This is the real foundation and the perfect preparation for deep meditation.

More informations and photos: http://india-yoga.blogspot.com