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Yoga
exercises and philosophy have become mainstream
longer considered strange in the West. Everyone
from students to professionals to corporate
executives find their lives enriched, yogic
practices are widely accepted for generating many
health benefits. In a stressful world of high tech
and fast paced living, more and more people are
turning to relaxation to halt the deteriorating
influences of contemporary lifestyles. Yogic
practices are based on thousands of years of use.
Yoga is not dogmatic, but rather a science for
personal evolution. Practitioners find fresh
insights into their own consciousness as well as
new, healthier outlooks on the world.
According to His Divine Grace Acharya Keshav
Dev, the benefits of pranayama (yogic
breathing practices) include:
"The body and mind becomes strong and
healthy, fat and over weight is reduced. There is
glow in the face and Eyes sparkle like diamonds.
The practitioner becomes very handsome. Voice
becomes sweet and melodious"
"You will be able to enjoy better sleep, a
happier disposition, a clearer and calmer mind.
You will learn how to build up your health
mentally, physically and spiritually. Due to the
practice of Yoga you will able to protect yourself
against colds, fevers, constipation, headaches,
fatigue, and other troubles. You will know what to
do in order to remain youthful, vital and alert,
regardless of your calendar-age; how to lose or
gain weight; how to get rid of premature wrinkles,
and keep a smooth skin and clear complexion."
Yoga works on the mind and the body at the same
time, as well as exploiting their interdependence.
No other system does this. Western psychology
studies the mind, western exercise physiology
studies the effect of exercise on the body, but
there is no emphasis on the interrelationship of
the mind and the body.
Yoga asanas (postures) and breathing deal with the
physical body, but due to their effect on the
brain, they also affect the mind. All the wonders
of modern science will not bring happiness, peace
of mind, health or a long life. Although wonders
have been achieved in our external environment –
space travel, computers, etc.- our internal
environment has been neglected. Thousands of years
ago the ancient yogis turned their minds inwards
and discovered their true nature. This allowed
them to work out a system of body and breathing
exercises which results in vitality, rejuvenation
and peace of mind.
Why not enjoy the benefits of modern science, but
also do yoga to enjoy the benefits of vitality,
rejuvenation and peace of mind as well? Yes, you
can have the cake and eat in too!
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