Abstract

YOGA: A HOLISTIC WAY OF HARMONY IN LIFE!

Prof. Rameshbhai Devrajbhai Chaudhary and *Prof. Dr. Dhrubo Jyoti Sen

Abstract

The ultimate goal of Yoga is moksha (liberation) though the exactdefinition of what form this takes depends on the philosophical ortheological system with which it is conjugated. "Yoga has fiveprincipal meanings:(1) yoga as a disciplined method for attaining a goal (2) yoga astechniques of controlling the body and the mind (3) yoga as a name ofone of the schools or systems of philosophy (darśana) (4) yoga inconnection with other words, such as "hatha-, mantra-, and laya-,"referring to traditions specialising in particular techniques of yoga (5)yoga as the goal of yoga practice." Yoga as an analysis of perception and cognition. Yoga as the rising and expansion ofconsciousness. Yoga as a path to omniscience. Yoga as a technique for entering into otherbodies, generating multiple bodies and the attainment of other supernaturalaccomplishments. "Yoga" is a complete way of life including - Gyan Yoga or philosophy, Bhakti Yoga or path ofdevotional bliss, Karma Yoga or path of blissful action and Raja Yoga or path of mindcontrol. Raja Yoga is further divided into eight parts, of which only one part is Asana or postures. Derived from the Sankrit word "yuj" which means "to unite or integrate"; yoga is a 5000 year old Indian body of knowledge. Yoga is all about harmonizing the body with the mind and breath through the means of various breathing techniques, yoga postures (asanas) and meditation. Pranayama is the extension and control of one’s breath. Practicing proper techniques of breathing can help bring more oxygen to the blood and brain, eventually helping control prana or the vital life energy. Pranayama also goes hand in hand with various yoga asanas. The union of these two yogic principles is considered as the highest form of purification and self-discipline, covering both mind and body. Pranayama techniques also prepare us for a deeper experience of meditation.

Keywords: Pranayam, Asana, Kundalini Yoga, Gyan Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, Raj Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Meditation.