Sunday, July 22, 2012

5 faces of Yoga




Depending on ones state of being, different definitions of Yoga work. From a very high view point, all of them may be equivalent. But, it may be useful to hold and relate to all of them.


  • In a religious state of mind, Yoga is that which connects one to ones ishta devata or favourite deity. For me, Yoga is that which shows me Ram in my heart and helps me surrender to him!
  • In an utilitarian state of mind, Yoga is that which cleanses all impurities in me - physical, physiological and mental and keeps me in a state of perfect poise to face the world. Clears the way to the discovery of manifestation of ones deeper desires.
  • In a moralistic state of mind, one sees the forces that pull one in unhealthy / evil paths and the forces that pull one towards healthy / holistic paths. Then, Yoga is that which minimises the former and powers the latter.
  • In a silent state of mind, one witnesses / becomes the state of perfect silence within and without. Then, Yoga is that which attaches the external part of oneself to the silent state within and gets the silent part to direct the external.
  • In an activist state of mind, one sees so many impurities (causing intense suffering) all around. Then, Yoga is that which touches the infinite well spring of positive energy within and helps one spread that positive light outside. In such a relating with the world, ones impurities are seen clearly and are eliminated.
 

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