What is Yoga?

Yoga is derived from the word yoke which means union or joining. Hence, Yoga is literally the joining together of the finite self and the infinite self.

What does this mean?

The finite self is defined as the actual physical body and the experiences that we have physically. Everyone can relate to the physical body because it is a real entity that can be seen and touched.

Next comes the infinite self. This is the inner self- the higher self-the spiritual self.


Many people associate the spiritual self with religion and this is a common misconception.The spiritual self does not have anything to do with religion. Yoga is not a religion. Yoga accepts people of all religions, whether they are Christian, Jewish, Agnostic, etc. Not all people who practice Yoga belong to a religion, and not all the people who belong to a religion practice Yoga.

Yoga provides you with the means to connect to your infinite body. Most people visualize Yoga as just a workout, however, it is much more than that. Yoga positions (asanas) are just as good for the body as for the mind (neurological system) as well as the metabolism (endocrine system).

Asanas follow one after the other in a specific way. In some Yoga paths, the teachers should not modify the sequence, but let them be carried out as they were originally designed. The goal is to direct the flow of energy and circulation to different areas of the body. This allows you to prepare the body for meditation, the last step in the Yoga path. It also is a means to obtain ultimate bliss (Nirvana).


The combination of breath exercises (pranayama), Yoga positions (asanas), mudras (hands positions), bhandas (body locks), and meditation, comprise the practice of Yoga.

Yoga provides the skills necessary to connect mind, body, and soul. In today's world we are brought up with how to deal with the external world, but most rarely touch base on the inner world.

Yoga will teach you how your body works, how to breathe properly, and how to use all of these techniques for your own benefit. This will enable you to understand and relate the mind and body together instead of separately. Yoga provides you with the tools necessary to quiet the mind so that you can access the natural state of oneness.