Introduction to Aparigraha and its place in the Yoga Sutras and Hinduism "Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a desire for material possessions, status, or power? Do you find yourself constantly wanting more, even when you already have everything you need? If so, you're not alone. The temptation to accumulate and cling to possessions is a universal human tendency. It can be challenging to break free from the cycle of coveting and attachment. But what if there was a way to cultivate contentment and inner peace, even in the face of external distractions and temptations? Enter Aparigraha, a crucial concept in Hinduism and yoga that offers a path to liberation from greed and desire. Aparigraha, often translated as non-coveting or non-possessiveness, is one of the five yamas, or ethical guidelines, outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. It's a powerful practice that promotes mindfulness, simplicity, and inner detachment from material possessions and external wants. But Aparigraha isn't just about renouncing material possessions or living a minimalist lifestyle. It's about finding a balance between what we truly need and what we think we want and developing a sense of contentment and gratitude for what we already have. In this blog post, we'll dive deeper into the concept of Aparigraha, exploring its origins and significance in Hinduism and yoga and offering practical tips for cultivating this powerful practice in your own life." Definition and explanation of Aparigraha as non-coveting or non-greed Aparigraha, often translated as non-coveting or non-greed, is letting go of attachments and desires for material possessions, power, and status. It's about finding contentment and gratitude for what we already have rather than constantly seeking more. This doesn't mean we must give away all our possessions or live a minimalist lifestyle. Still, it does mean being mindful of our wants and needs and letting go of the belief that external possessions or achievements will bring us lasting happiness. In Hinduism, Aparigraha is one of the yamas, or ethical guidelines, outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. It's a crucial aspect of yoga philosophy and practice. It is often seen as a way to cultivate inner peace and detachment from the material world. It's important to note that Aparigraha is not about asceticism or denying ourselves the necessities of life. Instead, it's about finding balance and recognizing that true happiness and fulfillment come from within rather than from external possessions or achievements. The benefits of practicing Aparigraha for the individual and society There are many benefits of practicing Aparigraha for both the individual and society. Some potential points to include in a discussion of the benefits of Aparigraha might consist of the following: Increased mindfulness and gratitude: Practicing Aparigraha can help us become more mindful of our possessions and desires and encourage us to cultivate gratitude for what we already have. This can lead to increased contentment and a sense of inner peace.Simplicity and reduced stress: Letting go of unnecessary possessions and desires can simplify our lives and reduce the stress and pressure that come with trying to accumulate more.Improved relationships and connections: Aparigraha can also help us develop more meaningful and authentic relationships as we learn to focus on what truly matters and let go of the belief that external possessions will bring us happiness.Environmentalism and social justice: Aparigraha is also closely related to environmentalism and social justice, as it encourages us to recognize our interconnectedness and consider the impact of our actions on others and the planet. By cultivating a sense of non-coveting and non-attachment, we can work towards a more equitable and sustainable world.Increased inner peace and liberation: Ultimately, the practice of Aparigraha can lead to increased inner peace and a sense of freedom from the cycle of desire and attachment. By letting go of our attachment to material possessions and external wants, we can find a more profound sense of contentment and fulfillment within ourselves. Examples of Aparigraha in action, such as simplicity, environmentalism, and social justice: Simplicity: Aparigraha encourages us to let go of unnecessary possessions and focus on what truly matters. It can involve living a minimalist lifestyle, decluttering our homes and lives, and simplifying our schedules and routines.Environmentalism: Aparigraha can also inspire us to consider the impact of our actions on the planet and work towards a more sustainable and equitable world. That might involve reducing our consumption, choosing environmentally-friendly products, and advocating for environmental justice.Social justice: Aparigraha encourages us to recognize our interconnectedness and consider the impact of our actions on others. It can involve advocating for social justice and working towards a more equitable and inclusive society through volunteering, activism, or supporting organizations that promote social justice.Mindfulness and gratitude: Practicing Aparigraha can also involve cultivating mindfulness and gratitude in our daily lives. That might involve setting aside time to meditate or practice yoga, journaling, or simply taking a few moments to appreciate the present moment and the people and things we have in our lives.Letting go of attachment: Finally, Aparigraha encourages us to let go of attachment to material possessions and external wants. It can involve letting go of the belief that external things will bring us happiness and finding contentment and fulfillment within ourselves. Conclusion and final thoughts on the importance of Aparigraha in contemporary times In conclusion, Aparigraha is a powerful and timeless concept that offers a path to liberation from the cycle of coveting and attachment. We can find increased contentment, simplicity, and inner peace by cultivating mindfulness, gratitude, and a sense of inner detachment from material possessions and external wants. Aparigraha is also closely related to environmentalism and social justice, encouraging us to consider the impact of our actions on others and the planet. In today's world, where consumerism and the constant desire for more are often celebrated and promoted, the practice of Aparigraha can be a challenging but gratifying path. It can be challenging to let go of attachments and desires. Still, by consistently cultivating Aparigraha in our lives, we can find a more profound sense of fulfillment and connection to the world around us. Whether through mindfulness, gratitude, or simply letting go of what we don't truly need, Aparigraha offers a path toward inner peace and liberation in contemporary times
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Definition and history of Hatha Yoga Hatha Yoga originated in ancient India as a physical, mental, and spiritual discipline. The word "hatha" can be translated as "force" or "willpower," and Hatha Yoga is often described as a "forceful" form of yoga, in contrast to more meditative styles like Raja Yoga. Hatha Yoga is believed to have originated in the 15th or 16th century. However, it has roots in much older Vedic and Yogic traditions. It is a system of yoga that focuses on the physical body and its ability to withstand the demands of long periods of seated meditation, which is a key aspect of many other forms of yoga. Hatha Yoga is often associated with asanas, physical postures, pranayama, or breath control. These practices are designed to strengthen and purify the body and prepare the mind for meditation. Hatha Yoga also includes relaxation and concentration techniques and moral and ethical guidelines for living a meaningful and fulfilling life. In modern times, Hatha Yoga has become one of the most popular forms of yoga in the Western world. It can be found in many yoga studios and fitness centers around the globe. It is often taught as a beginner's form of yoga due to its focus on physical postures and breath control. Still, people of all levels of ability and experience can practice it. Traditional goals of Hatha Yoga (e.g., purification of the body, preparation for meditation) The traditional goals of Hatha Yoga are to purify the body and prepare the mind for meditation. According to the Hatha Yoga tradition, the physical practices of asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control) are designed to purify the body and mind, making them more receptive to the higher states of consciousness that are the ultimate goal of yoga. Purification of the body is achieved through the physical practice of Hatha Yoga, which helps to stretch and strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility and balance, and promote proper functioning of the internal organs. Hatha Yoga also helps cleanse the body of toxins and impurities, improving overall health and well-being. Preparation for meditation is another key goal of Hatha Yoga. Meditation is a central aspect of many forms of yoga, and it is believed to be the ultimate goal of the spiritual path. Hatha Yoga practices such as asanas and pranayama help to calm the mind, focus attention and create the mental and physical conditions necessary for successful meditation. In addition, Hatha Yoga emphasizes the importance of developing a strong and stable foundation, both physically and mentally, as a foundation for practicing meditation. Overall, the traditional goals of Hatha Yoga are to purify the body, prepare the mind for meditation, and promote physical and mental well-being. Practicing Hatha Yoga regularly is believed to achieve a greater sense of balance, peace, and self-awareness, as well as improved physical health and well-being. The Physical Practice of Hatha Yoga Description of common Hatha Yoga postures (asanas) and their benefits Adho Mukha Svanasana Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): This posture is a great all-around stretch that targets the back, legs, and arms. It helps to improve flexibility, strengthen the muscles, and promote proper spine alignment. Downward-Facing Dog is also an excellent pose for relieving stress and calming the mind. More about Down dog here Warrior II Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): This standing pose helps to strengthen the legs, hips, and core, as well as improve balance and stability. It is also an excellent pose for enhancing focus and concentration, as it requires a strong mental focus to maintain proper alignment. Triangle pose Triangle Pose (Trikonasana): This standing pose helps to stretch and strengthen the legs, hips, and spine, as well as improve flexibility and balance. It is also an excellent pose for relieving back and shoulder tension and can help improve digestion and reduce stress. For variations and step-by-step, go to theTrikonasana blog Childs pose Child's Pose (Balasana): This resting pose is a great way to relax and release tension in the body. It stretches the back and hips and helps to calm the mind and reduce stress. The child's pose is often a resting pose between more challenging asanas. Balasana and variations Setu Bandha Sarvangasana Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): This supine pose helps to strengthen the back, hips, and core, as well as improve flexibility in the spine. It is also an excellent pose for relieving stress and tension in the back and neck. It can help improve digestion and reduce fatigue. Want to know more about Bridge pose, look here These are just a few examples of the many asanas practiced in Hatha Yoga. Each pose has unique benefits, and the practice of Hatha Yoga involves a combination of postures that stretch, strengthen, and balance the body and mind. Importance of proper alignment and breath control in Hatha Yoga Proper alignment and breath control are essential aspects of Hatha Yoga practice, as they help ensure physical exercise safety and effectiveness. Proper alignment refers to the body's proper alignment in each yoga posture (asana). Proper alignment helps to ensure that the body is in the optimal position for each pose and helps to reduce the risk of injury. It also helps maximize the benefits of each pose, allowing the body to move freely and deeply into the stretch. Breath control, or pranayama, is an essential aspect of Hatha Yoga. The breath is closely connected to the mind and body, and pranayama practice involves controlling the breath in specific ways to affect the mind and body positively. Proper breath control can help to calm the mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall well-being. In Hatha Yoga, the breath is often used to focus the mind and maintain awareness during physical practice. Overall, proper alignment and breath control are essential for the safety and effectiveness of Hatha Yoga practice, and they help enhance the practice's physical and mental benefits. Pay attention to proper alignment and breath control to get the most out of your Hatha Yoga practice. Modifications and variations for different levels of ability and experience Using props: Props such as blocks, straps, blankets, and bolsters can modify poses and make them more accessible for students with limited flexibility or strength.Varying intensity: Hatha Yoga poses can vary by using different levels of effort or holding poses for various lengths of time. For example, a beginner might hold a pose for a shorter time. A more experienced student might have the same posture for a longer time.Modifying the alignment: The alignment of Hatha Yoga poses can be modified to suit different levels of ability and experience. For example, a beginner might start with a modified version of a posture that is easier to hold. At the same time, a more experienced student might work towards the full expression of the pose.Using variations: There are often multiple variations of a given pose that can suit different levels of ability and experience. For example, a beginner might start with a modified version of a standing posture. At the same time, a more experienced student might work towards a more advanced variation of the same pose. Overall, the key is to listen to your body and work within your limitations while also challenging yourself to improve and progress in your practice gradually. Finding a Hatha Yoga practice appropriate for your level of ability and experience is essential. Hatha Yoga is a beautiful practice that offers many physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Hatha Yoga can be a great way to improve your overall well-being and quality of life. If you are new to Hatha Yoga, starting slowly and gradually building up your practice is important. There are many different styles of Hatha Yoga, and it is essential to find a style and a teacher that resonates with you. It is also necessary to listen to your body and respect your limitations. Hatha Yoga should be a practice that leaves you feeling refreshed and energized, not exhausted or strained. If you are an experienced practitioner, Hatha Yoga can be a great way to deepen your practice and continue to challenge yourself. There are always new poses and techniques to explore, and the practice of Hatha Yoga can be a lifelong journey of self-discovery and self-improvement. If you are interested in giving Hatha Yoga a try, check out our programs or classes that are appropriate for your level of ability and experience. With regular practice and a positive attitude, Hatha Yoga can be a rewarding part of your life. Give Hatha yoga a chance with us at Yogateket.The yoga therapy program with Guy is a perfect start for the beginner.
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Finding Inner Peace Through Brahmacharya: A Guide to Cultivating Detachment Brahmacharya, also known as celibacy or self-control, is a term often associated with the Hindu ascetic tradition and is considered one of the essential virtues in Hinduism. However, the concept of Brahmacharya has a broader meaning and can be applied to all aspects of life, not just sexual behavior. In this blog post, we'll explore the concept of Brahmacharya in depth, including its meaning, the benefits of practicing it, and how to cultivate it in your own life. What is Brahmacharya? Brahmacharya means "walking in Brahman," or living in a state of unity with the ultimate reality. In Hinduism, Brahman is the absolute and infinite reality that is the source and ultimate goal of all existence. To walk in Brahman is to live in a state of unity with this ultimate reality and to cultivate qualities such as self-control, discipline, and detachment. In the traditional Hindu ascetic tradition, Brahmacharya is often understood as a state of celibacy, in which the individual renounces sexual activity to focus on spiritual practices and the pursuit of enlightenment. However, the concept of Brahmacharya has a much broader meaning and can be applied to all aspects of life. It is not just about sexual behavior but also about cultivating self-control and discipline in all areas of life, such as food, sleep, and thought. The Benefits of Practicing Brahmacharya There are many benefits to practicing Brahmacharya. One of the primary benefits is increased energy and vitality. Sexual activity can be physically and emotionally demanding, and by renouncing it or practicing it in moderation, the individual can conserve their energy and focus it on other pursuits. This increased energy and vitality can improve physical health and mental clarity. "Brahmacharya is more than just celibacy. Explore the broader meaning and importance of this key virtue in Hinduism." Brahmacharya can also lead to increased mental focus and concentration. By cultivating self-control and discipline in all areas of life, the individual can develop the ability to focus their attention on a single task for more extended periods, leading to increased productivity and effectiveness. In addition to the physical and mental benefits, Brahmacharya can also lead to a greater sense of inner peace and contentment. By practicing detachment and non-attachment, individuals can learn to let go of their desires and cravings, leading to a greater understanding of inner peace and contentment. How to Cultivate Brahmacharya in Your Own Life If you are interested in cultivating Brahmacharya in your own life, there are several steps you can take. Here are a few suggestions: Practice moderation in all areas of life: While Brahmacharya is often associated with celibacy, it can be applied to all aspects of life. Practice moderation in your consumption of food, sleep, and other pleasures, and learn to control your desires and cravings. Cultivate self-awareness: Pay attention to your thoughts and actions, and become aware of when you act out of desire or attachment. You can learn to control your activities and ideas more effectively by becoming more self-aware. Practice detachment: Let go of your attachment to material possessions, relationships, and other things that please you. This cannot be easy, but it can lead to greater inner peace and contentment. Cultivate mindfulness: Practice mindfulness or other techniques to help you become more aware of the present moment and your thoughts and actions. In summary, Brahmacharya is a concept in Hinduism that refers to the practice of self-control and discipline in all aspects of life. It is often associated with celibacy but can be applied to other areas, such as food, sleep, and thought. The benefits of practicing Brahmacharya include the following: Increased energy and vitality.Improved mental focus and concentration.A greater sense of inner peace and contentment. To cultivate Brahmacharya in your life, you can practice moderation and develop self-awareness, detachment, and mindfulness. By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you can begin to experience the benefits of Brahmacharya and live in a state of unity with the ultimate reality.
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The Power of Satya: The Importance of Honesty in Eastern Spiritual Traditions Have you ever found yourself telling a white lie or exaggerating the truth to impress someone or avoid an uncomfortable situation? While it may seem harmless, these small deceptions can erode trust and undermine our integrity. This is where the concept of Satya comes in. Satya, a Sanskrit term that translates to "truth," is a cornerstone of many Eastern spiritual traditions, particularly Hinduism and Jainism. At its core, the practice of Satya involves aligning one's thoughts, words, and actions with what is genuine and authentic and avoiding any form of deception or manipulation. But Satya is about more than just not lying – it's about honesty in all aspects of life, including self-awareness and introspection. The practice of Satya requires a commitment to honesty in all aspects of life. This means avoiding lies, half-truths, and exaggerations and being honest about our intentions and motivations. It can be tempting to manipulate the truth to protect our interests or image. Still, the practice of Satya calls on us to be honest and transparent, even when it's uncomfortable. But Satya is not just about being honest with others – it's also about being honest with ourselves. This requires self-awareness, introspection, and a willingness to confront and overcome egoistic tendencies. It can be challenging to admit our flaws and limitations, but the practice of Satya encourages us to be honest and authentic, even when it's complicated. The practice of Satya is not just about avoiding deceit but also about promoting understanding and clarity. It is about speaking and acting in a way that helps others see things as they are and encourages transparency and compassion. Satya is often associated with "Satya parmo dharma," or "truth is the highest duty." This means that truthfulness is essential, and this principle should guide all other virtues and actions. The practice of Satya has many benefits. It can promote trust and honesty in our relationships and lead to greater integrity and authenticity. It can also help us to develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us and to live more by our values and principles. In an increasingly fast-paced and complex world, the practice of Satya can provide a sense of grounding and clarity, helping us to navigate our lives with honesty and integrity. In summary, Satya is the principle of truthfulness that calls on us to align our thoughts, words, and actions with what is true and accurate and to avoid any form of deception or manipulation. It is a challenging but gratifying practice that can lead to greater integrity, authenticity, and understanding. By committing to honesty in all aspects of life, we can foster stronger relationships based on trust and honesty and live more authentic and meaningful lives. The next time you find yourself tempted to stretch the truth, consider the power of Satya and the benefits of honesty.
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Asteya: The Third Yama of Yoga and the Practice of Non-Taking Asteya, or non-stealing, is an essential part of many Eastern spiritual traditions, especially Hinduism and Jainism. This practice involves not taking what does not belong to us, whether material possessions, time, or other people's ideas or energy. While this may seem simple, practicing asteya requires us to be mindful and understanding in our actions. At a basic level, asteya means not stealing material things like money, valuables or intangible things like intellectual property or ideas. It also means not taking something without permission, even if it is small. To practice asteya, we must be honest and respect the boundaries and property of others. Asteya also involves not taking what does not belong to us in other ways. This could include taking someone's time without their permission or taking their energy or attention without their consent. Practicing asteya requires mindfulness and self-awareness. We must consider how our actions impact others and are mindful of their boundaries and needs. We must also be aware of our desires and motivations and ensure our actions align with our values and principles. There are many benefits to practicing asteya. It promotes mutual respect and understanding and helps create healthy, harmonious relationships. It also helps us develop self-awareness and self-control and live according to our values and principles. Practicing asteya can create a more compassionate and inclusive society and foster a sense of community and connection with others. In summary, asteya is the practice of not taking what does not belong to us. It requires mindfulness and self-awareness and helps us respect the boundaries and needs of others. Practicing asteya promotes mutual respect and understanding and helps us live according to our values and principles. By following asteya, we can create a more compassionate and harmonious society. Respect others' property: Ask for permission before taking or using someone else's belongings. This includes tangible items like clothes or electronics and intangible things like ideas or information.1. Don't take more than your fair share: Whether food at a potluck or office supplies at work, make sure only to take what you need and not more.2. Be mindful of your time: Don't overstep your boundaries by taking too much of someone else's time without their permission.3. Respect others' energy: Be aware of how your actions and words may affect others, and try not to drain their energy or attention without their consent.4. Practice gratitude: Acknowledge and appreciate what you have, and be grateful for what others contribute to your life.5. Reflect on your motivations: Consider whether your actions are driven by greed or a genuine desire to help others.6. Practice self-control: Work on developing self-control and mindfulness in your actions, and be conscious of any tendencies towards stealing or taking what does not belong to you.7. Foster compassion and understanding: Practice empathy and try to see things from others' perspectives. This can help you develop a deeper understanding and respect for the boundaries and needs of others.8. Seek guidance: If you're struggling with practicing asteya, consider seeking advice from a spiritual leader or mentor. They may be able to provide you with more resources and support.
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Discover the Joy of Ahimsa: How Non-Violence Can Improve Your Life and the World Ahimsa, a Sanskrit term that translates to "non-violence" or "non-harming," is a cornerstone principle in many Eastern spiritual traditions, particularly Hinduism and Jainism. At its core, Ahimsa is about cultivating compassion and kindness towards all beings and refraining from causing harm or suffering to others. But Ahimsa is much more than just avoiding violence - it's about actively seeking to do good and promote the well-being of others. For those who practice Ahimsa, non-violence is considered the highest virtue, and this principle should guide all other virtues and actions. This can be a tall order in a world where violence and conflict seem everywhere. But the practice of Ahimsa requires more than just refraining from physical violence. It also involves avoiding mental and emotional violence, such as anger, hatred, and jealousy. One of the key teachings of Ahimsa is the interconnectedness of all beings. This belief holds that all living beings, whether human or animal, are interconnected and interdependent and that the well-being of one impacts the well-being of all. This idea can be hard to wrap our heads around, but it's important. It reminds us that our actions and words impact others and that we are all connected in a web of life. So, how can we practice Ahimsa in our daily lives? Here are a few ideas: Volunteer or donate to charitable causes; this is a simple way to actively seek the well-being of others and promote good in the world.Practice mindfulness and self-awareness. Ahimsa requires that we constantly check in with ourselves and our actions to ensure that they align with this principle. This means being mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions and ensuring that they align with the idea of non-harm.Seek non-violent solutions to conflicts. Whether it's a disagreement with a colleague or a larger political issue, try to find ways to resolve disputes peacefully.Practice self-care. Ahimsa is not just about avoiding harm to others; it's also about taking care of ourselves. This means nourishing our bodies, minds, and spirits and ensuring that we care for ourselves. The practice of Ahimsa can be challenging, as it requires us to confront and overcome negative emotions and behaviors that may be deeply ingrained in us. But the rewards of cultivating Ahimsa are profound. It can lead to greater inner peace, happiness, and a sense of connection. So, the next time you find yourself in a situation where you're feeling angry or frustrated, try taking a deep breath and reminding yourself of the principles of Ahimsa. It may help you respond more compassionately and mindfully.
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Namaste: A Greeting with Deep Spiritual Significance If you have ever attended a yoga class, you are familiar with the wordNamaste. But do you know Namaste's meaning? Many people only take Namaste as a traditional but respectful greeting practiced in India. However, it is much more than addressing hello or goodbye. Namaste is one of the six forms of pranama in the Hindi tradition. Namasteappears in many ancient Hindu scripts. For instance, it appears in the Rigveda 8.75.10, Atharvaveda verse 6.13.2, and Taittirya Samhita, amongst others. The origin of Namaste is unknown. However, it has been practiced for ages in India. It is an excellent sign of obedience and submission from one being to another. Namaste is also seen in many temples in India and Thai. It can be seen in statues and many medieval-era sculptures of gods and other beings. Namaste's meaning can be described literally by translating the meaning from Sanskrit. We can also derive the meaning of Namaste from a spiritual point of view. Namaste is a Sanskrit word that combines two words, "namah" and "te." Namah means bow, reverential salutation, or adoration. Te, on the other hand, means 'to you.' Namaste, therefore, translates to 'I bow to you' in literal terms. The 's' between the two words is used to join nama and te as described in the Sanskrit language. Namaskar or Namaskara, on the other hand, is derived from the Sanskrit words Namah and skara. Kaara translates to doing. This word has been used in ancient Hindu scripture used in the sense of paying homage, salutation, and worship. Both Namaste and Namaskar are used interchangeably by many. "The light within me bows to the light within you." However, Namaskar is usually used to salute many people as opposed to Namaste, which is used to greet a single individual. When using Namaskar, you merely say that 'I pay my salutations to all of you' rather than to a single person. A yoga teacher opening a class where they are greeting many people can say Namaskar, however, when greeting only one student, Namaste is more appropriate. Since both these terms have the essential word Namah, they are salutations. They have the same underlying meaning. The spiritual meaning of Namaste Namasteis not only about sending greetings. It has a more profound spiritualNamastemeaning in Hinduism.Namastemeans "I bow to the divine in you." When performing theNamastesalutation, you merely recognize that there is a divine entity in every person. Therefore the sacred body in yourself will be saluting the holy being in the person you are greeting. Further, 'Nama' can also be reduced to Na and Ma, which are equivalent to 'not mine.' In this spiritual meaning ofNamaste, you are separating yourself from your human body. Your spirituality separates from your physical being, and only the divine in you is left behind. "I bow to the divine in you." Further, the term also means that you are sending your peace and spirituality to someone hoping to receive something positive. For instance, Namaste is said to thank the yoga teacher at the end of a yoga class. It also reminds you to appreciate the other students and eventually realize that you are not alone in this world. Namaste reminds us that we are unique and in this world together; therefore, we should all respect each other. With Namaste, you acknowledge the sacred being in every other person you send the salutations to. It enables one to look deeper into their spirituality and understand who they are. You can, therefore, live your life with the principles of Namaste. In spiritually also, Namaste is translated as 'the light in me honors the light in you.' Again here you are acknowledging that people are more than just human bodies. There is more to a person than what we see; therefore, you respect and honor that god in them. The god that shines a light on them is the same one that shines the light on you. Things to remember the next time you say namaste Namasteis not only said at the end of a yoga lesson. It can be said anywhere to people of all ages, including children. This is because you recognize the divinity inside a person, not the person's physical body.Use the correct pronunciation forNamaste. This Sanskrit word is pronounced as nuh-mUH-st-hey. The emphasis is placed on the second syllable. Learning the proper pronunciation will give you confidence and make you proud when sayingNamaste.To do theNamasteproperly, bring your palms together in añjali mudrā (prayer position) close to the heart chakra. Letting your palms touch your heart means that you are saying and doing this from your heart.If you decide to doNamastewith a gesture (mudra), it should also be followed with a slight bow of the head. Do not bow too much at the waist; bow the head.Maintain eye contact with the person that you are saluting with theNamastegesture. This will show sincerity and bring the required bond.You can useNamastesto show respect, salute elders, say thank you, welcome a stranger, show your gratitude, and recognize the power of divinity that resides in the other person's heart. This is especially true for someone that you share the same spirituality with. The Namaste means that you choose to take Namastecan change your life because of its more profound spiritual significance. When you practice Namaste, it gives you that inner calm and peace. You respect other people and revere the gods in them. You acknowledge that the god in you is the same in all people. Therefore, you can live a better life if you attach Namaste to your friends, relatives, family, and neighbors. Regardless of the Namaste meaning that you choose to take, whether spiritual or not, Namaste is essential. This is not only in yoga but also in daily living.Namastescan improve the quality of your life. It can enhance the way you relate with other people. It can also improve how other people see you and how you make them feel.
from https://www.yogateket.com/blog/namaste-meaning-what-you-need-to-know
Step-by-Step Guide to Surya Namaskar A Surya Namaskar, also known as the Sun Salutation, is a series of 12 yoga poses that are traditionally performed as a form of physical and spiritual practice. The name "Surya Namaskar" comes from the Sanskrit words "surya," meaning "sun," and "namaskar," meaning "salutation." The origins of Surya Namaskar are somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have developed as a way to honor the sun, which is revered as a symbol of life and consciousness in Hinduism. Surya Namaskar is traditionally performed as a form of morning practice to greet the sun and pay respect to its life-giving energy. Surya Namaskar is also believed to have a number of physical and mental benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as reduced stress and increased focus. It is typically performed as a flowing sequence, with each pose flowing smoothly into the next, and can be modified to suit the needs and abilities of the practitioner. In modern times, Surya Namaskar has become popular around the world as a form of physical exercise and yoga practice. It is often taught in yoga classes and is a staple of many yoga routines. Surya Namaskar A is the first half of the full Sun Salutation sequence, and it consists of six poses that are repeated on the left and right sides of the body. Here is a step-by-step guide to performing Surya Namaskar A:1. Stand in Mountain Pose (Tadasana) with your feet together and your arms by your sides. Take a few deep breaths to ground yourself and bring your awareness to your breath.2. Inhale and raise your arms up above your head, bringing your palms together in a prayer position. This is the Upward Salute (Urdhva Hastasana).3. Exhale and bend forward from the hips, bringing your hands to the ground beside your feet. This is the Forward Bend (Uttanasana).4. Inhale and step or jump your feet back into a plank position. Make sure your shoulders are directly over your wrists and your core is engaged. This is the Plank Pose (Phalakasana).5. Exhale and lower your body down to the ground, keeping your elbows close to your sides. This is the Low Plank (Chaturanga Dandasana).6. Inhale and lift your chest and hips up, bringing your body into an upward-facing dog pose (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana). Keep your elbows bent and your shoulders relaxed.7. Exhale and press your hips back, lifting your chest and head up as you bring your body into a downward-facing dog pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana). Keep your feet hip-width apart and your hands shoulder-width apart, and try to straighten your arms and legs as much as possible.8. Inhale and step or jump your feet back to the front of your mat, coming back into the Forward Bend (Uttanasana).9. Exhale and straighten your legs as you lift your chest and arms up into the Upward Salute (Urdhva Hastasana).10. Inhale and return to Mountain Pose (Tadasana), bringing your arms back down to your sides.11. Exhale and repeat the sequence on the other side of the body, starting with step 2.12. When you have completed the sequence on both sides, return to Mountain Pose (Tadasana) and take a few deep breaths to ground yourself.Surya Namaskar A is a great way to warm up the body and prepare for yoga practice, and it can also be practiced on its own as a form of moving meditation. As you perform the sequence, try to focus on your breath and the movement of your body, and let go of any distractions or thoughts. Enjoy your practice! Now you can try this fun variation with modifications with Amaranta Energetic Sun Salutation a class
from https://www.yogateket.com/blog/find-your-flow-with-surya-namaskar-a-the-ultimate-warm-up-sequence
In Sanskrit, ‘Atman’ is the phrase for ‘self’ or ‘soul.’ It forms part of the Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy, where it is the first principle: the ‘true’ self. This idea, of a ‘true’ self or soul, refers to the part of an individual human being which forms their very essence and stretches beyond the ego or the false self. To achieve this, one must acquire self-knowledge; the realization that one's ‘Atman’ is identical to the transcendent self of Brahman. The religion Hinduism also teaches that there is Atman in every single being. Here it offers a different view of the similar Buddhist concept of Anatta, which explains that there is no unchanging self or soul. Instead, Hinduism sees the potential to achieve this true self in every person, and it is up to them to unlock it. Self-awareness and self-knowledge are crucial elements of any yoga practice, and the focus on breath is twinned with the emphasis on the self. A regular practice, combined with a focus on breathing and meditation techniques, can help the yogi to recognize and connect with their higher presence. The Yogasutra of Patanjali mentions Atman in multiple verses when discussing the path to self-knowledge and understanding. Book 4 describes spiritual liberation as a stage whereby the yogi achieves true self-knowledge. At this point, the mind and soul are no longer confused, and the mind is no longer troubled by worries or ignorance. Instead, ‘pure consciousness settles in its own pure nature.’ The achievement of Atman is the ultimate goal of many spiritual practices, including yoga. Meditation is used to help try and achieve this, as it focuses the attention inwards on the breath, and advocates a move towards this true soul which is the desire of so many practitioners.
from https://www.yogateket.com/blog/atman-yoga-lingo
Anga is a Sanskrit word that translates as ‘limb.’ The term also received fame as the name of a historical kingdom in the Indian subcontinent. This kingdom is believed to have existed between approximately 1100 and 500 BCE. The name is thought to have been derived from the alleged founder, Prince Anga. Another theory comes from ‘Ramayana,’ and suggests that the site is the location at which the Hindu god, Shiva, killed Kamadeva, and his body parts – angas, or limbs, were dispersed. Its capital city crowned this kingdom, Champa, which sat on the right bank of the Ganges - is believed to be where the site of modern-day Bhagalpur lies. The city contains several religious sites and temples, making it a focus for pilgrimage. The site is listed as one of the six great nations in the Buddhist texts and boasts a rich spiritual heritage, and is still recognized in the present-day site of the capital city. In addition to historic sites, anga is renowned for another reason - its position in ‘Ashtanga,’ or the Eight Limbs of Yoga. The term is derived from Patanjali's Yoga Sutras and refers to his Eight-Fold path of yoga. This concept consists of eight steps on the road to internal purification, which help lead to the discovery of the Universal of Supreme Self. The Eight Limbs are recognized as follows: Yama (universal morality)Niyama (self-study and discipline)Asana (posture)Pranayama (breath control)Pratyahara (control of the senses)Dharana (concentration)Dhyana (meditation)Samadhi (union with the Divine) Like so many yogic terms, ‘anga’ is a word that has been taken and woven into the wider culture and context of yoga. The Eight Limbs are a core aspect of yoga, and the practices and ideas contained within it permeate every aspect of the system; the ‘limb’ is the balance and strength of yoga itself.
from https://www.yogateket.com/blog/anga-yoga-lingo |
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