Atha Yoganusasnam
Yogash Citta Vrtti Nirodhah
Tada Drashtuh Svarupe Avasthanam
-Yoga Sutra-s (1.1-1.3)
The Yoga Sutra-s of Patanjali is handbook for yoga, but you do not have to read much further than first few lines to understand what yoga is all about. Patanjali makes his intentions clear from the very beginning.
1. Atha Yoganusasnam (YS 1.1). Now is the time for Yoga.
With the very first sutra Patanjali sets forth the path of yoga. What follows are complete instructions on what yoga is and how, through practice, we begin to still the mind, reaching Samadhi (bliss). But, you must start now. Now is the time.
"Patanjali"
2. Yogash Citta Vrtti Nirodhah (YS 1.2).
Yoga is the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind. With our breath and with our practice, we still the mind and allow space for awareness. It is in this awareness that we connect with the true Self and the divinity that lies within us all.
3. Tada Drashtuh Svarupe Avasthanam (YS 1.3).
Then the seer dwells in his own nature, resting in his true Nature, which is Self-realization.
We all come to yoga for different reasons, yet in the end we seek the same outcome; to connect to the true Self or Self-realization. While your yoga practice may start off as "good exercise" you'll soon figure out it's much more than that. Over time you'll feel more confident, healthier, grounded, accepting, loving, compassionate, patient, tolerant, and grateful (to name a few). But you must start Now if you want to see results.
There's no time like the present to practice. Start Now and be transformed through the liberating practice of yoga.
What inspired you to practice yoga? How do you encourage others to start practicing?
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