If Yoga is about calming the mind and reaching a state of silence, how do we explain the existence of such a wide variety of poses, ranging from the easy and gentle to the complex and rigorous? And, is there any need to do these if one is already into other forms of physical exercise?
Well, it’s about understanding the purpose of Yoga poses.
TWO KINDS OF ASANAS AND THE REAL CONTRIBUTION OF YOGA
The vast variety of Yoga poses basically boil down to two schools. One has repetitive poses that involve speed and jerks – these are ‘dynamic asanas’ that are part of Hatha Yoga. The repetitions and strain help to develop muscle strength and stamina of organs and body systems. The jerky movements also help combat laziness and lethargy – by shattering tamas (inertia), a state of rajas (activity) is awakened.
This variety of asanas aid growth in the formative and developmental phases of life, which is why they are recommended for young people and students and also for people who are lethargic, as they can break tamas. Surya Namaskar (sun salutation) and loosening and strengthening exercises (shithilkarana and shakti-vikasaka vyayam) are included in this variety.
The other school of asanas – the Patanjali system of Yoga – emphasises effortlessness and relaxation. Slow breathing, calming the mind and relaxation are the cornerstones of this school. When the movements are without jerks and the postures are maintained effortlessly for longer duration, the nerves calm down, energy is conserved and one feels deep relaxation after the session.
These slow asanas are to be preferred by those above 18 years of age – when the growth of the physical frame is almost complete. At this stage, energy is conserved and channelised, and imbalances are controlled. Regular practice of these leads to mental poise, increased stamina and pranic balance. Strength and forbearance develop in the personality.
This is the real contribution of Yoga to the modern world.
HOW DOES YOGA STACK UP AGAINST NON-YOGIC PHYSICAL EXERCISES?
Physical exercises such as athletics, sports, gymnastics, workouts, etc. have beneficial effects on the muscular, circulatory, and respiratory systems. But Yogic exercises, in addition to these, benefit the nervous and glandular systems. It is the stimulation of these systems that evokes the energy that destroys tamas and awakens rajas.
Again, although non-yogic exercises can be used for maintaining good health, the attitude of competition, showmanship and material gain inherent in these contributes to increasing mental tension.
Finally, for developing inner awareness, Yoga easily outscores other forms of exercise.
THE UN’S FAITH IN YOGA FOR SUSTAINABLE LIVING
When the draft resolution establishing the International Day of Yoga was proposed by India at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, it was endorsed by a record 175 member states. Recognising its universal appeal, in December that year, the United Nations declared June 21 as International Day of Yoga. The UN website states: “The practice of Yoga brings joy, health, peace from within and deepens a sense of connection between an individual’s inner consciousness and the external world.”
The UN General Assembly is made up of 193 countries – i.e. most of the states of the world – and so, its domain includes concerns of humanity as a whole. The theme for IYD is decided by the United Nations each year, which focuses on a specific aspect of Yoga relevant to society.
YOGA IN TIMES OF ADVERSITY
After the pandemic, in 2022, the UN had noted: “The essence of Yoga is balance – not just balance within the body or that between the mind and the body, but also balance in the human relationship with the world. Yoga emphasises the values of mindfulness, moderation, discipline and perseverance. When applied to communities and societies, Yoga offers a path for sustainable living.”
People, including Covid patients, took to Yoga during the pandemic. It helped them remain rejuvenated in isolation, and to fight their fears, anxiety and depression.
The role of Yoga in maintaining global peace and addressing humanity’s collective concerns has now been acknowledged. At an individual level, Yoga brings poise, relaxation, strength and forbearance. With calm nerves, increased stamina and pranic balance, man (and woman) can channelise the conserved energy into constructive activities for a better world.
Let’s condition our minds to celebrate International Yoga Day on June 21.
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