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We can
learn not to keep situations or events alive in our minds, but to
return our attention continuously to the pristine, timeless present
moment rather then be caught up in mental movie-making. Our very
Presence then becomes our identity, rather than our thoughts and
emotions.
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| - Eckhart Tolle |
There
are a number of yoga paths suited
to differing individual
temperaments. They
all lead eventually to realization of
the Self as spirit, a soul at one with the great body of spirit that
permeates the entire universe. At first you may be intimidated by this
lofty goal; simply be present and begin.
"A journey of one
thousand miles begins with the first step."
The word yoga means to yoke or join,
to achieve union
with. It
has two meanings, as
it also defines the process, the "how
to,"
of
achieving union. "Union
with what?"
you ask. Union
with the Supreme Being, universal intelligence, the ground of being,
God; use the word or concept for this "higher
power"
with which you are most comfortable. For the time being, just allow for
the possibility of this transcendent experience to exist for you. In
time, with devoted practice, the goal is attainable by anyone!
Classical
yoga,
first organized by Patanjali many centuries ago, described the eight
limbs or stages of yoga, symbolized by our studio name, Eight Stones.
As students advance through these eight stages, they reach higher
levels of consciousness, peace, light and bliss.
The eight limbs
of yoga
are:
Yama
-
Universal commandments of right behavior
Niyama
-
Individual prescriptions for right living
Asana
- Right
posture
Pranayama
- Life-force control, with attention on the workings of the breath
Pratyahara
-
Withdrawal of the mind from the five gross senses of the body
Dharana
-
Concentration of the mind
Dhyana
-
Meditation
Samadhi
- Bliss consciousness
Eight
Stones classes are
primarily Hatha Yoga oriented,
with a focus on Asana
and Pranayama.
Teachers will
add elements of other stages based on their experience and the needs
and desires of their students. Do not hesitate to talk with your
teacher about any aspect of yoga practice with which you need further
help or clarification.
Enjoy, have
fun and
persevere. You have our
best wishes for success, peace and
joy!
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