The Word Yoga

The Word Yoga has a unique significance, and transcends the popular view of many, that it is only a series of exercises designed to improve health. When understood, Yoga can be one of the most important words in our vocabulary, as it is a reference to that which is our eternal reference centre. To discover this inner space, that transcends all outward limitations, is the goal and aim of Yoga. A similar word that carries the same spirit and significance of the word yoga is the word religion, which can also used in the sense of union, as it is defined as binding back to the source.

The words Yoga and Religion by definition are synonyms. However there is a subtle difference in stress, as Religion usually refers to a large and organised pattern of belief. While the Yogi usually stands on his own two feet with consciousness as his guide

The Yogi following a spiritual path, may well accept the discipline of the religious life, while at the same time working to develop his own being to the highest level possible. The Self (Atman), transcends the lower nature or ego, that has only self-interest uppermost in the mind, rather than the greater good.

Pratyahara or sense-withdrawal; literally ‘gathering towards oneself’, is possibly one of the most important next steps in Yoga, as it is a step we take when breaking identification with the objects of the sense world.

George Ivanovich Gurdjieff believed that most of us were asleep and on automatic pilot, and at his Institute for the Harmonic Development of Man. Would occasionally shout ‘STOP’, when his followers would freeze and suspend whatever they were doing, even stopping in mid conversation. They would then observe the real feeling and intention behind what they were doing. Revealing that we are not always awake and being true to ourselves.

The word Yoga can also be an important reminder, if every time that we hear the word, we stop for a moment, and remember the times that we experienced real peace and tranquillity. Moments of being true to ourselves, it can be a useful reminder during moments of forgetfulness, and a catalyst for change when needed most.