The yogic path back to the self

Yoga is sometimes described as the path back to the self – what does this mean and how does it even work?

Yoga literally means ‘to connect’ – to ‘yoke’, as it were: connection to what? – perhaps to connect to universal energy? To the earthly realm in which we inhabit? To ourselves – that still point inside where our inner wisdom resides?

Perhaps that sounds a little unlikely, or even far-fetched – how can throwing a few poses result in some sort of change of state? Has yoga itself become so far removed from itself that it needs to reconnect?

Yoga is connection

Yoga in the western world has become a physical practice – often undertaken in the belief that it will make you more flexible and maybe more relaxed. In fact, this gym-based version is far from the true nature of the practice.

Yoga is a life choice based on a lifetime of self-study, discipline and dedication. It’s a mindset, and becomes a way of life. It’s not self-deprivation or anything difficult. It’s simply living compassionately – with self love and compassion.

The very basis of a yogic lifestyle sits on the principles of making good choices – for the body and mind of the practitioner as well as for the community as a whole. Principles such as doing no harm, seeking to be kind and truthfulness are but 3 examples.

The postures we are familiar with in our physical practice form one part of this lifestyle, of course – but are of far less importance than you might imagine. Could you consider that the postures and movements are there to bring the body and mind to a state of stillness – a preparation for meditation if you will. In Dru Yoga the flowing movements may be describes as ‘mediation in motion’.

Breathwork – or more correctly, pranayama – is another consideration on this ‘path to the self’ – control, direction and quality of the breath; or again, more correctly ‘life force’. Moving with the breath could be one aspect of your practice which could help achieve a more relaxed, or altered, state.

That feeling of temporary detachment from the reality of the everyday – that inner stillness, a sense of mindfulness yet mind-less-ness. Meditation, peace. Here we touch that elusive connection with not only the true self – but also with all that is.

This is yoga.