“Yoga is the journey of the self. Through the self to the self.” - The Bhagavad Gita. This practice is awesomeness. I’ve been exploring the practice of Yoga and Yoga Nidra for quite some time now. At first I have found that there are some odd elements yet then there are some beneficial elements of tremendous importance. At least in my opinion. The intent of my sharing is to give my perspectives derived from experience that could be of use to a few or to many who are intrigued by the idea of doing a consistent practice. The very first thing I noticed from doing basic Yoga sessions was that I have a lot of room for improvement when it comes to my flexibility, balance, focus, even strength, and having an optimal breathing pattern. All of which have improved drastically through consistent practice as well as with the inclusion of changes to my bodybuilding routine (removal of exercises such as leg presses, leg extensions, etc.). Those were the immediate benefits, yet also just the skin deep benefits. Yoga has a far greater importance than anything you may gain that is of physical or even mental benefit. It seems to me that the very word “yoga” is a representation of the union of oneself and all there is; in other words existence. Through my practice, I have gained the increased ability to be self-aware, an increased feeling of being centered or grounded, and have had the opportunity to conduct self-study in a new medium. The majority of us don’t really know ourselves I’d say, so self-study in a new fashion is a great opportunity. All of this then has lead me to having made a fascinating discovery… “Your honesty, your love, your compassion should come from your inner being, not from teachings and scriptures.” - Osho. That is a truth of immortal value, or at least I think so. Now as for the odd elements - just some awkward positions, awkward exercises and “workouts” only at first as long as you keep an open mind. Now lastly… Yoga Nidra is one of the ultimate forms of practice for complete relaxation. It’s the very act of hearing and feeling, and the very definition of the title “Yoga Nidra” means complete relaxation, all according to the instructors I’ve been listening to. Yoga Nidra is utterly simple and has some interesting visualization and consciousness exercises to help you get into a relaxed state in minutes. It does take practice for we all have neurotic minds that need to be calmed, though as long as you’re consistent it will always be of great benefit. Yoga in of itself is anabolic for the body, very positive and energizing. The practice of it creates great balance for when you put it up against your daily stress, and your already implemented workout routine. Remember - most forms of training that are done in the gym are catabolic to the body, so yoga can even help you recover faster from your gym training I find. I never thought that I would ever take up the practice of Yoga three years ago, yet I’m forever glad for the moment that I decided to listen to my chosen mentors and give it a shot. It has now become an integral part of daily routine, which leads me to end with this… “Yoga is not for tightening your ass. It’s for getting your head out of it.” - Eric Paskel. Namaste.
