Yoga explained

 YOGA- ANCIENT SCIENCE -MODERN APPLICATION.

By Dr. Suzanne Wildman-Chard.

What does the name yoga conjure up in your mind? Ask this question at a dinner party and wait for the giggles and curious expressions on the faces of your fellow guests. Far too many people assume that to perform the art and discipline of yoga, it is essential to be able to get one’s legs and various body parts into contortions even Hudini would envy! Yet the science of yoga, although developed and practiced up to 10,000 years ago, has never lost its power to enhance the lives of all who follow its path. Despite the mysterious names still used by many, to identify the numerous physical, mental and mechanical applications of this internal and external form of exercise, anyone old or young, fit or ill, can learn sufficient techniques to enhance the quality of their life.

               The same civilisation famous for practicing yoga as a way of life (the Vedic civilisation around 4,500 BC), also developed the equally famous system of medicine called ‘Ayurvedic’. The Vedic Indians were highly advanced in all areas of science such as astrology, mathematics and biology. They understood their place in the universe as being an integral part of it, indivisible from it. Their lifestyles, including diets, grooming practices and exercise, were all adapted to be in harmony with their scientific understanding of the world into which they were born, and would return to in death. It therefore follows that their ancient language of ‘Sanskrit’ should still be the authentic way to name the various postures and practices of the discipline they influenced the most. There are many schools of yoga, some very different to others in the pace or conditions in which they are practised. However, most Western teachers follow the ‘Hatha’ methodology, which is certainly the most publicised in this part of the world.

              The practices and principles laid down by the ancient sages can be described as a ‘living science.’ The principles behind yoga are to use the vehicle (the body) we inhabit in combination with the power that controls it (the mind) to re-unite our fundamental essence (our spirit) with the universal life force that permeates us all, and from which we came and are an integral part of.

         The word yoga simply means ‘union.’ It is not however, obligatory to follow any particular religion, ideology or creed to take up the practice. Neither is it mandatory to adopt any particular dietary restrictions or observances – although it makes sense to take stock of ones overall culinary and lifestyle choices. Clearly, there is no place for ‘junk food’, smoking or excessive alcohol intake in anyone committing to a healthy new routine.

Another misunderstood concept is the obligation to learn in parrot fashion from the Sanskit, terms for all the postures utilised. It does not matter whether the student learns the principles of yoga in their own language or Sanskrit. The benefits obtained from the application are all that matters.

             Regular yoga practice is medically recognised to reduce stress and promote well being even in the 21st century. It also improves flexibility, circulatory integrity, respiratory function, quality of sleep, stamina, confidence and a general sense of well being. It is also important to stress that no one has to compete with anyone else (especially the teacher) as everyone’s body is different in shape, limb length and flexibility. The principles of yoga application are the effort and degree of concentration applied to each movement-NOT how far any individual can stretch or bend. If the pupil can only manage a quarter as far in extension as the teacher – but is applying maximum force to their muscles and tissues then they are achieving more than another student who can execute a more extreme position without challenge! No one should be fearful or discouraged from joining a class just because they feel unfit or intimidated by how they compare themselves to others. Yoga is an individual discipline that is better learned in a group setting than alone. But it is not a competition or a race for some sort of pre-conceived imaginary goal of flexible perfection. It should also never be used as a ’stage performance’ to show off or to prove some sort of point to others.

                The techniques learned during the yoga classes also prove invaluable tools to help cope with everyday life stressful situations in a positive way. The ability to instantly relax, control respiration and ‘withdraw the senses’ from harmful or hostile situations, is one that is unique to this type of discipline and the benefits obtained cannot be explained, only experienced. There are also cosmetic benefits to be gained by regular yoga practice as it helps to keep hair, skin, eyes and all parts of the body in maximum condition as we age.

              GETTING STARTED

                 Professional tutors will always offer an initial consultation to assess the student’s ability and suitability for individual class placements. It is also important for the tutor to be aware of any specific health issues the student may have. This knowledge helps to guide the teacher towards helping improve the pupil’s physical problems and limitations plus ensure nothing that could be unsafe is included in a lesson. 

    Yoga sessions must always start with a series of relaxation techniques (or Savasana) that gently stretch, warm up and prepare muscles, joints and ligaments for the demands that follow.

   The famous flowing sequence of the sun salutation (Surya Namaskar) is also a favourite and well known set of movements often recommended by the teacher at the beginning of each class. By working through all muscle groups in a logical and opposing routine, in combination with correct breathing techniques, this vinysana (flowing sequence) is a mini work out on its own.

                 Some teachers would separate specific breathing exercises (pranayamas) to isolated sessions, while others may incorporate them in each class within the general format, mainly depending on the school from which they trained. The various pranayama sequences strongly challenge lung function in different ways. They are also designed to help clear sinuses, improve the voice, thyroid and parathyroid functions and regulate blood pressure, to mention just a few of their benefits.

                   Usually around 5 to 10 of the hundreds of available postures (asanas) will next be demonstrated, depending on the class’s level of ability. The sequence of these moves will be carefully selected by the teacher to ensure that the spine is flexed and counter flexed in all directions equally. Nothing in yoga should be performed in a haphazard or incorrectly designed way.

                After sufficient postures have been executed, a short period of meditation adds a special dimension to the session. A good teacher will tailor the meditation to the pupil as an individual, the choice of which will have been discussed and agreed upon at the initial pre-class introductory meeting. There is no limit to the number or type of meditations that can be performed, but the importance of selecting the right subject for each pupil is the key to correct and beneficial practice. Meditation is medically acknowledged to promote numerous healing processes. It reduces blood pressure, releases many useful bio-chemicals and has a residual calming effect upon the practitioner. Widely used in ‘pain clinics’ by specialists, it also helps sufferers of chronic pain and terminal diseases to improve their quality of life.

               Specially tailored yoga classes are also used in pre- and post- natal classes; for children with challenging behaviour and for those for whom other forms of exercise are not possible. So, when the stresses and strains of everyday life seem unbearable, when life appears pointless and without hope – seek out your nearest yoga class. You have nothing to lose but your negativity, stress and tension. After all, any discipline that has been performed for over 10,000 years without ‘going out of fashion’ must be getting something right!

(c) Dr Suzanne Lynda Wildman-Chard DSc (medical sciences) BSYA (Yoga Teacher) 2008