5 Principles of Yoga

Proper Exercise

In opposite to many modern physical exercise systems which focus on developing the muscles through mechanical movement, Yogic physical exercises are designed to develop the body, calm the mind and to lead to spiritual growth.

Asanas, the yogic physical exercises are steady poses which are held for some time. The goal is primarily to increase body flexibility and also to strengthen the muscles.

The body is only as young as it is flexible. Yoga exercises focus on the flexibility and strength of the spine. In the spinal column the all-important nervous system is located. By maintaining the spine’s healthy state of flexibility and strength the circulation is increased and the nerves receive the needed supply of nutrients and oxygen. This also has positive effects on the internal organs and the endocrine system.

Proper Breathing
Most people use only a fraction of their lung capacity for breathing. They breathe shallowly, barely expanding the ribcage. Their shoulders are hunched, they have painful tension in the upper part of the back and neck, and they suffer from lack of oxygen.

Yogic breathing is deep abdominal breathing. It brings air to the lowest and largest part of the lungs. It ensures that the body receives its supply of oxygen. It prevents painful muscle tension in the body, headaches and breathlessness.

Controlling the vital energy of breath, Prana, yogic breathing exercises help to calm and control the mind.

Proper Relaxation
Modern social life makes it difficult for people to relax. Many have even forgotten that rest and relaxation are nature's way of recharging. Even while trying to rest, the average person wastes a lot of physical and mental energy through tension. In the course of one day, our body usually produces all the substances and energy necessary for the next day. But it often happens that all these substances and energy may be consumed within a few minutes by bad moods, worry and unnecessary tension. This leads to tiredness, headaches, and exhaustions and over a long period it may lead to serious illness.

During complete relaxation, there is practically no energy being consumed or expended. Only a little of the energy is used to keep the body in normal condition while the remaining portion is being stored and conserved. This relaxation recharges physically, mentally and spiritually and leads to more abundance and vitality.

Proper Diet
The yogic diet consists of vegetarian, pure, simple and natural foods which are easy to digest. The purpose of eating is to supply the body with the life-force, the cosmic energy “Prana”. The best nutrition plan for a yoga student is the simple diet of natural, fresh foods, avoiding foods which are overly stimulating like meats, fish, eggs, onions, garlic, coffee, white sugar, tea (except herbal), alcohol and drugs.

Meditation
When the surface of a lake is still, one can see to the bottom very clearly. This is impossible when the surface is agitated by waves. In the same way, when the mind is still, with no thoughts or desires, you can see the "Self" this is called "Yoga". The mental ability to concentrate is inherent