Yoga is an ancient science based upon physical and mental practices that has its origins in ancient India and Nepal. The word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the ancient language of the time.  Yoga is therefore best related to the union occurring between the mind, body and spirit, the practice of which leads to a healthy body, peaceful mind, joyful heart and ultimately a liberated soul.

Yoga comprises eight limbs that encompass every aspect of our holistic practice and development. These are as follows:

I.    Yama - Universal ethical principal
II.    Niyam - Rules of personal conduct
III.    Asana - The practice of yoga postures
IV.    Pranayam - The practice of breathing techniques
V.    Pratyahar - Control of the senses
VI.    Dharana - Concentration of the mind
VII.    Dhyan - Meditation
VIII.    Samadhi - Absorption in the infinite

This path of eight stages forms the structural framework of yoga practice. Each is a part of a holistic focus which eventually brings completeness to the individual as they connect with the inner self and to the sacredness of all life. An individual person can emphasize one branch and then move on to develop another as their unique process of development is established. These eight steps basically act as guidelines on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. They are the recommended prescription for moral and ethical conduct and self-discipline; they direct attention toward one's health and wellbeing; and they help us to acknowledge the spiritual aspects of our nature.

Further to this these eight limbs are the three main strands of recommended thoughts and actions. These can be interrelated and consist of:

• Karma  (work)
• Gyana (knowledge)
• Bhakti (devotion)

Similarly, the body, mind and soul are three vital components of a human being.  Yoga brings a combination of all these components as the body, mind and soul are engaged in activities that relate to the development of our consciousness through our work, gaining knowledge or practicing devotion towards the divine.

Yoga is an immortal art, science and philosophy. This philosophy was systemized some 2,000 years ago by the sage Patanjali in a single treatise, named “Yoga Sutra”.  It is the best subjective psycho anatomy of mankind ever created for the experience of physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual development wellbeing of the practitioner. It has stood the test of time from the beginning of human civilization and it will remain supreme as a precise psycho-physical science for many ages to come.

There are many different types of cells in the body, with physical, psychological, intellectual, emotional and spiritual functions. It is known that each cell has a life of its own. These cells are the pearls of life. In the practice of yoga every cell is consciously made to absorb a copious supply of fresh blood and life-giving energy.  With increased life force or prana, and the body, mind and spirit in harmony, the self works toward experiencing its own inner world.  This creates a synergy of consciousness where the self has the ability to rest in the lap of the soul (Atma).

Our Yoga classes are based on these principles and incorporate a holistic approach to stimulate the consciousness and to increase the prana to the body, mind and spirit as a complete being.  Through a combination of Yoga postures (asana) , development of the  breathing system (pranayama) and quieting the mind with sacred sounds (mantra) we work to provide the most beneficial approach to you with our unique teaching style.  Please contact us to locate a class near you.