Integral Yoga

Integral Yoga is a term that highlights the holistic nature of yoga, as these days many practise yoga partially rather than wholly. Yoga goes beyond the exercises to promote health and flexibility, to include the well being of all and the planet on which we live.

To live at the level of immediacy so that we act in a way that is appropriate to each moment transcends the automatic level of reactionary behaviour. This means that we have to start to develop a sixth sense so that consciousness becomes the guide. This process starts with the first yoga exercise class, when we discover that our guru (teacher) is on the inside and not on the outside.

Wholeness of being is only possible if we unify the scattered energies in the body by coordinating MIND, Feeling and Will, and not think one thing and do another, as we do when by responding to stray impulses. This means when practising Hatha yoga to visualise the ideal or perfect posture. Then feeling into the whole body, harmonise and energise the appropriate muscle groups, before starting the movement toward asana. This is not running on automatic pilot, but an act of will in the light of consciousness.

Life is patterned by a supreme intelligence that guides the processes of this world and if we can embody this intelligence, we awaken the higher mind and start to will what God wills for us. The Self (Atman), transcends the bits and pieces that make up the lower personality. To be ‘Self’ responsible is to be ‘Self’ response-able, that is able to respond adequately in all situations.

Centring is the stepping back and letting go of the external differences that have captured our attention. It is the return to immanent spirit void of distractions, and which allows us to see clearly the true relationship of each part of the whole. To centre is to step back into the still space and the timeless peace that mirrors the wisdom reflected in each moment. Whether Raja, Jnana, or Bhakti, each is part of the seamless whole, which is yoga.