What is Yoga ?

The real meaning of Yoga is " A deliverance from contact with pain and sorrow." 

A yogi can controls his mind, intelligence and ego, being absorbed in the spirit withing him. With the practice of yoga we can stilled our ego, our mind and our intelligence. When our mind, intelligence and ego are undercontrol, freed from restless desire, so that they rest in the spirit within, a man become a Yukta- one communion with God.

'Yoga'  This word origninally rooted from Sanskrit word Yuj means bind, join attach and yoke. Yoga can described as wisdom in work, skillful living amongest activites, harmony and moderation. "

"When the senses are stilled, when the mind is at rest, when the itelligence wavers not- then say the wise, is reached the highest stage. This steady control  of the senses and mind has been defined as Yoga. He who attains it is free from delusion. " - By Kathopanishad

The science of Yoga imbibe itself the complete essence of the Way of Life, including - Gyan Yoga or philosophy, Bhakti Yoga or path of devotional bliss, Karma Yoga or path of blissful action, and Raja Yoga or path of mind control. Raja Yoga is further divided into eight parts. At the heart of the Raja Yoga system, balancing and unifying these various approaches, is the practice of Yoga Asana.

EIGHT STAGES OF YOGA BY PATANJALI

1. YAMA - Universal moral commandments.

2. Niyama - Self purification by discipline.

3. Asana - Posture.

4. Pranayam - Rhythmic control of the breath.

5. Pratyahara- Withdrawal and emancipation of the mind from the      domination of the senses and exterior objects.

6. Dharana- Concentration.

7. Dhyana- Meditation.

8. Samadhi- A state of super consciousness brought about by          profound meditation in which the individual aspirant becomes 

   one with the object of his meditation - The universal spirit.

Yama and Niyama control the our passion and emotions and keep us in harmony with our fellow man .  Asana keep the body healthy and strong and in harmony with nature.

Pranayma and Pratyahara teach the us the regulate the breathing and thereby control the mind.

Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi take us into the innermost recesses of his soul.