What’s the first image that comes to mind when you think of Yoga?  

It’s not uncommon for this image to consist of individuals contorting their bodies into impossible positions that are more appropriate for the Cirque du Soleil.  There is nothing wrong with some of these breathtaking images, and I love looking at them because I’m in awe of the strength, grace, practice, and determination it takes to hold these postures.  My issue with these images flooding social media is that these postures are not possible for most individuals (including me) and the models are usually young, white, beautiful, slim women.  This makes it hard to connect to Yoga’s rich Indian history or how it is a practice that is for EVERYONE regardless of age, body type or ability.

In the last few decades, Yoga has become a billion-dollar business.  When I started attending yoga studios in Toronto in the early 1990s, there were only 2 studios, and now there is a studio every 3 blocks.  There are “yoga teacher rock stars” and businesses that make high-end yoga gear. I’m glad that Yoga has become so popular because this beautiful healing practice impacts more people.  However, I believe this commercialism and competitiveness have diluted the teachings and appropriates this ancient practice in some situations. 

There is evidence that Yoga existed in India as far back as 500 BC with roots in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and other religions.   Sanskrit is the sacred language of Hinduism, classical Hindu philosophy, and other historical religious texts. The word 'Yoga' is derived from the Sanskrit root 'Yuj', meaning 'to join' or 'to yoke' or 'to unite-union of mind, body and spirit.  

As a yoga teacher and student, I want my students to be familiar with Yoga’s roots and understand that what happens on the mat is more than just stretching and holding postures.   This union of mind, body and spirit, happens while practicing the asanas-Sanskrit word for postures.  A regular practice will increase flexibility, strength and mobility, and while you are holding the postures, you are practicing pranayama-breath control, meditation, and mindfulness.   This holistic practice is how transformation happens and the “union” builds a healthier, more agile body, calms the nervous system, teaches presence, and provides us with tools that we can use off the mat.  

Yoga has a rich philosophical history that includes sacred and treasured texts: The Vedas, The Upanishads, The Bhagavad Gita and Pantanjali’s Sutras.  

Pantanjali was an Indian sage and thought to be the author of the Yoga Sutras, which is a classical yoga text on yoga theory and practice.  According to his teachings, there are 8 components to Yoga:  

1.   Yamas-attitudes towards environments. 

2.   Niyamas-attitude towards ourselves 

3.   Asana-yoga postures 

4.   Pranayama-breath control and breathing exercises

5.   Pratyahar-withdrawal of senses

6.  Dharana-concentration

7.  Dhyana-meditation

8.  Samadi-complete integration

The Yamas and Niyamas deal with ethics which I’ll cover in another blog and  #3-7, are parts of a yoga class.  

One of the most compelling benefits of Yoga is stress reduction. It’s inspiring to see how it has helped individuals recover from trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety.  

Enjoy the stretching and postures, and know that you are also calming your mind and relaxing your body.  Instead of thinking of Yoga as work out, think of it as a work in.  

Be well.

Anita