What are Yoga and Yogic Practices?
Yoga is an ancient discipline and one of India’s most valuable heritages. In today’s world, yoga has become a global phenomenon, attracting people from all corners of the globe as a solution to modern-day problems. Despite this widespread popularity, yoga is still often misunderstood, even in India, leading to various misconceptions.
Many people view yoga only in parts, unaware of its true holistic potential. The word “yoga” is used in two ways: as both an end goal and a means. In the end, yoga represents the integration of personality at the highest level. Derived from the root word “Yuj,” yoga signifies samadhi, a state of complete integration or harmony. Another term often used for this is samatva, meaning balance or equilibrium, which captures the essence of yoga’s ultimate goal.
Yogic Practices: The Means to Achieve Integration
To achieve this state of integration, various techniques and practices have been developed and refined over time. These are collectively known as yogic practices. In yogic literature, many terms are used in conjunction with “yoga,” such as Netiyoga, Laulikiyoga, and Dhyanayoga, indicating different practices. Additionally, different systems of yoga, such as Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Hatha Yoga, represent schools of thought that use specific techniques to reach the same goal of mental and physical harmony.
In summary, yoga refers to both the end goal of integration and the means to achieve it. This dual meaning is often a source of confusion about yoga’s true purpose.
Schools of Yoga
Over time, various schools of yoga have emerged, each emphasizing different techniques while aiming for the same goal: the highest level of personal integration through mental control. Some schools, like Hatha Yoga, focus on using the body to influence mental processes, while others, like Bhakti Yoga, focus on devotion and emotional control.
Classification of Yogic Practices
Yogic practices can be broadly classified into the following categories:
- Asanas (Yoga Postures)
- Pranayamas (Breathing Techniques)
- Bandhas and Mudras (Energy Locks and Gestures)
- Kriyas (Cleansing Techniques)
- Meditation (Mental Focus and Awareness)
- Attitude Training Practices (Developing Mental Discipline)
Each category includes a variety of techniques designed to promote balance, calm the mind, and ultimately lead to a harmonious, integrated state of being.