Psalm 19:14
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
To begin this article, I will give a disclaimer: I respect your right to your opinion as I honor my right to mine. You are welcome to your personal beliefs based on your faith and your personal experience as I do. I am not suggesting that my opinion is more right than another’s. This article is my take on the spiritual side of yoga and is based in my personal relationship with my Creator, my faith, my experience and my practice of yoga. – Namaste
Namaste is translated to “I bow to the Divine in you.” Or “I honor the face of God within you as God is within me.”
The term “yoga” (from the Sanskrit word yuj, which means “yoke” or “to unite,” as in uniting the body, mind and spirit) was first used in Hindu texts in the fifth century BC. Yoga originated in Hinduism, and remains a large part of some Hindu practices today. At times the subject has come up as to whether those who hold more conservative religious beliefs should practice yoga. I will say that is entirely up to the individual. For me, yoga is a big part of how I pray and how I relate to God and open my mind and my heart to let love shine in. My favorite yoga chant is actually an Irish prayer:
May the long time sun shine upon you.
All love surround you.
And the pure light within you,
Guide your way on.
(it is beautiful when sung: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9e-_Ep7e98)
I have studied Christian Spirituality, women’s spirituality, and various yoga practices and meditation trainings. I have taught numerous women’s empowerment workshops and mentored many young women. In my experience and my studies, I have come to the opinion that the practice of yoga and meditation are a way to connect with Divine energy. There are Eight Limbs of Yoga and the following interpretation of these can be helpful in discerning what your personal practice means to you.
The Eight Limbs of Yoga
1. Yama: These are five positive ethical guidelines (restraints, or abstinences) that include non-violence, fidelity to the Absolute, non-stealing, truthfulness and non-attachment.
2. Niyama: These are five positive behaviors, including cleanliness, contentment, self-discipline, self-study and devotion to God.
3. Asana: These are the actual physical exercises that people usually associate with yoga. These powerful poses are designed to give our bodies strength, flexibility and energy. They also contribute to the deep sense of relaxation that is necessary in order to lovingly meditate on the Absolute.
4. Pranayama: These are the energizing breathing exercises that produce vitality, overall health and inner calm.
5. Pratyahara: This is detachment from the ever-present fluctuations of life. Through this practice, we can transcend all the trials and sufferings that life often seems to throw our way and begin to see such challenges in a positive and healing light.
6. Dharana: This is the practice of powerful and focused concentration.
7. Dhyana: This is devotional meditation on God, designed to still the agitations of the mind and open the heart to God’s healing love.
8. Samadhi: This is blissful absorption of one’s individual consciousness in the essence of God. In this state, the yogi experiences the direct presence of God in his or her life at all times. The result of samadhi is peace, bliss and happiness without end.
This article includes excerpts from the writings of Dr. Frank Gaetano Morales
Liz Jones is the Wellness Coordinator for the City of Mesquite and a wellness professional in Rockwall, Mesquite, Wylie and surrounding areas. She is a writer, certified yoga instructor, personal trainer and wellness coach. She holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership and Strategic Management, with a graduate certificate in Ethics and Leadership. Her undergraduate studies included communication, business, writing, art, fitness, and dance. Liz Jones can be reached at: [email protected].