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Yoga
Eight Limbs of Yoga
Yoga is often synonymous with Asana practice – the physical postures of yoga. But did you know that Asanas are only a part of the larger whole? The practice of yoga is based on ancient principles, observations and theories which were carefully systemized into eight stages by sage Patanjali in his texts “The Yoga Sutras”. The Yoga Sutras were compiled in 400 BC, although archaeological evidence suggests that the principles described in the sutras were practiced much before that period.?Translated from Sanskrit, Sutra means a thread. In this context, it refers to the threads woven into the rich tapestry of Yoga; to create a complete picture and to gain an insight into the art and science of yoga.
Tune into your Chakras
“Balance your Chakras”, “harmonize your Chakras”, “open your Chakras” – sounds familiar? Chakra is synonymous with Yoga practice. It is an often repeated word that you’re most likely to come across in yoga. This month, let’s unfold the meaning of Chakra, what they are, where they’re located in the body and what they imply.??Chakra in Sanskrit means a wheel or a circle but in yogic context it is better defined as a whirlpool or a vortex. ?The ancient art of yoga is based on understanding and mastery of the energy world. This energy is classified into different forms possessing different sound and colour frequencies. This form of energy flows throughout the body via energetic pathways called nadis or channels. There are three major nadis or energy channels namely ida, pingala and sushma present in the subtle body. Where the nadis or energy channels intersect they form a vortex called a Chakra. These Chakras are vortices of psychic energy and are visualized and experienced as circular movements of energy at particular frequencies of vibration.?There are seven major Chakras in the body, each having its own unique attributes and associated with a particular colour, element and sound (mantra). In yoga, the Chakras are symbolised by lotus flowers with a specific colour and number of petals. Each of the Chakra relates to a personality attribute which can manifest in positive attributes if the Chakra is balanced and negative traits if imbalanced. ?Tune into your Chakras...