Yogomania, this is how we can call the latest trend that has emerged in recent times based on the traditional art of Yoga. Paradoxically, it is the most archaic form of training, which has not lost its value over the centuries, and every new day brings new followers of this technique.
So what is this Yoga? Yoga, in the literal sense, is the subjugation of one's body and mind, which leads to self-improvement. It is based on becoming aware of the desires and urges that are part of our existence and mastering them in such a way that they do not hinder personal development, but even contribute to its deepening. It is a holistic science of life that was born in India thousands of years ago. It is both the world's oldest system of personal development encompassing body, mind and spirit, which enables one to live in harmony with oneself and one's environment.
The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit term 'yuj', which means to connect, unite, direct. The yoga system consists of a number of directions referred to as paths, each of which leads to the same goal but in a way that is adapted to the needs and capabilities of different mental types and their different stages of development.
Yoga Paths:
- Bhakti - the aspiration to develop a loving relationship with the Divine in the form of bhagavan
- Jnana - striving for moksha (liberation from reincarnation) through the acquisition of spiritual knowledge
- Hatha - physical (e.g. asanas) and breathing exercises
- Karma - the pursuit of liberation through selfless acts
- Kriya - purifying yoga
- Kundalini- the pursuit of liberation through the awakening of Kundalini energy
- Laya - a meditative school of Yoga based on chakra work and Kundalini power
- Mantra - achieving moksha through the recitation of mantras
- Raja - Royal Yoga also known as the path of the heart
- Sahaja - the meditative path of Yoga based on awakening the Kundalini and working with the chakras
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Today, the word Yoga has many meanings. We talk about yoga when we practise meditation, doing particular series of exercises to keep our bodies in good physical condition. Increasingly, however, we talk about yoga as a sport that we do because it is in vogue. Yoga has become a way of life for millions of people around the world thanks to the media's increasing promotion of healthy lifestyles and physical activity.
