The Five Principles of Yoga
Developed by Swami Vishnu Devananda (Sivananda Yoga), the five principles contain the essence of Yoga teachings in a form that is both accessible and acceptable to Western practitioners.
Proper Relaxation
Deep relaxation incorporating the practice of pratyahara (sense withdrawal/inward attention) acts to release muscular tensions and refresh the mind. The effects of stress are systematically reversed - on a physical, mental, and emotional level. The benefits of relaxation carry over into daily life - leading to improved concentration, inner calm, and the ability to cope with stressful situations.
Proper Exercise
The asanas of Hatha Yoga work every muscle and joint in the body - stretching and toning, improving flexibility and strength, developing posture and co-ordination. On a deeper level they stimulate the glands and organs to function more efficiently. With regular practice the body is maintained in peak condition, and will "last a lifetime".
Proper Breathing
Rapid, shallow breathing is a physiological sign of stress. The practice of Complete Breathing (The Yoga Breath) promotes slow, deep respiration - with each inhalation and exhalation the lungs are filled and emptied completely. Thus breathing properly acts to reduce stress and bring about a feeling of tranquility and harmony. The breath is the carrier of life force or spiritual energy in the body. This energy is known in Yoga as Prana, and the practices of Pranayama develop the ability to regulate the flow of prana within the body/mind/spirit complex. The result is increased vitality (both physical and mental), and a connection to the eternal flow of prana through the Universe.
Proper Diet
A well-balanced diet is an essential part of good yoga practice. The emphasis is on natural foods - organic fruits and vegetables, lean meats for non-vegetarians, and a minimum of processed food. Becoming a vegetarian is often a natural progression for those practicing yoga. As one adopts the spiritual values of the yogic life there is less inclination to continue eating meat.
Positive Thinking & Meditation
Affirmations and resolutions (Sankalpa) help to change negative thought patterns and behaviours. Meditation stills the fluctuations of the mind (thoughts, emotions) and transforms consciousness from the mundane to the transcendental state of Samadhi (Supreme Bliss, Cosmic Consciousness).
Proper Relaxation
Deep relaxation incorporating the practice of pratyahara (sense withdrawal/inward attention) acts to release muscular tensions and refresh the mind. The effects of stress are systematically reversed - on a physical, mental, and emotional level. The benefits of relaxation carry over into daily life - leading to improved concentration, inner calm, and the ability to cope with stressful situations.
Proper Exercise
The asanas of Hatha Yoga work every muscle and joint in the body - stretching and toning, improving flexibility and strength, developing posture and co-ordination. On a deeper level they stimulate the glands and organs to function more efficiently. With regular practice the body is maintained in peak condition, and will "last a lifetime".
Proper Breathing
Rapid, shallow breathing is a physiological sign of stress. The practice of Complete Breathing (The Yoga Breath) promotes slow, deep respiration - with each inhalation and exhalation the lungs are filled and emptied completely. Thus breathing properly acts to reduce stress and bring about a feeling of tranquility and harmony. The breath is the carrier of life force or spiritual energy in the body. This energy is known in Yoga as Prana, and the practices of Pranayama develop the ability to regulate the flow of prana within the body/mind/spirit complex. The result is increased vitality (both physical and mental), and a connection to the eternal flow of prana through the Universe.
Proper Diet
A well-balanced diet is an essential part of good yoga practice. The emphasis is on natural foods - organic fruits and vegetables, lean meats for non-vegetarians, and a minimum of processed food. Becoming a vegetarian is often a natural progression for those practicing yoga. As one adopts the spiritual values of the yogic life there is less inclination to continue eating meat.
Positive Thinking & Meditation
Affirmations and resolutions (Sankalpa) help to change negative thought patterns and behaviours. Meditation stills the fluctuations of the mind (thoughts, emotions) and transforms consciousness from the mundane to the transcendental state of Samadhi (Supreme Bliss, Cosmic Consciousness).