The Yoga rules

By Paul Jerard

New Yoga students should be made aware that there will be positive side effects from their Yoga practice. Their mind and body will function in true harmony as a result of daily practice. Students of Yoga often develop a newfound love for life, and they usually think more clearly than ever before.

When you consider any activity, or drug, there are usually some side effects, over long-term use, but how often are the side effects negative? Maybe more than half of the time, we anticipate a negative side effect. Consider this: There are only positive side effects, which occur from Yoga practice.

Stress becomes manageable, internal conflicts are reduced, and you develop complete clarity through Yoga practice. The most valuable aspects of Yoga are enhanced mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

Meditation is one the most important Yogic methods, because this practice eliminates confusion, frustration, and internal or external conflicts. The Yoga practitioner, who meditates on a regular basis, finds a state of bliss and a newfound self-awareness. Meditation is a complete "tune up" for the emotional and mental planes of our existence. Regular meditation sessions will yield a sound mind.

A balanced mind will function in harmony with the body. With the emotional, mental, and physical planes of existence working smoothly, a Yoga practitioner will be more likely to achieve spiritual growth. Some will ask, "Does this mean Yoga will make you better than everyone else?"

In answer to that question - Let's say: As a result of Yoga practice, you should live a longer, happier, and healthier life. To claim superiority to others; would defeat the true purpose of the Yogic way of life. If we have the desire to truly help others see the value in Yoga, we must be humble examples of our lifestyle.

The moment the ego takes control of our actions, we are not present for our practice. If we are truly "in the moment," we can feel inner peace and tranquility. Your optimum mental state of tranquility can be felt by any other person who comes into contact with you.

On the other hand, the ego fuels arrogance, which will not enable us to help others. It is not possible to be diplomatic and arrogant at the same time. Please remember that every form of conflict is a choice. If we let the ego run our lives, we are not living much differently from a dog who proudly displays his or her tail high in the air.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html