The key purposes of Yoga are to isolate the mind from all thoughts, worries and anxiety and increasing the strength and flexibility of the body. The regular practice of yoga can help to keep stress and tension at bay and immerse the mind in a state of well-being and contentment.
Yoga was propagated by the great sage Patanjali. The eight elements of yoga are
Yama-The natural regulation of the nervous system
Niyama- Discipline
Asana- Posture
Pranayama-Rhythmic control of breath
Pratyahara- Contemplation
Dharna- Concentration
Dhyana- Meditation
Samadhi- The state of awakening, perfect equilibrium
The first five elements are known as External (Bahiranga) Yoga or Hath Yoga while the last three are referred to as Internal (Antaranga) Yoga or Raja Yoga. Raja Yoga can be achieved only after completing the first five stages.
A well-balanced mind can thrive only in a healthy body. While Ayurveda deals mainly with the health of the body and mind, Yoga deals with spiritual health. Therefore Ayurveda and Yoga are inter-related and crucial for a sound constitution.
Meditation
Meditation is the attainment of a high level of concentration and reaching out to the inner depths of mind. The path to meditation consists of three stages- dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (enlightenment). By concentrating on any particular object for a long time, attention is fixed and dhyana or meditation is achieved. Prolonged meditation leads to Samadhi or enlightenment.
