The word Yoga can be translated as the union of mind, body and spirit.
When we get together, and breathe together, connections happen
-- Seane Corne
For many people who start yoga the first attraction is for health of the physical body, which is a wonderful reason but asana (posture) can just be a stepping-stone for a deeper practice that becomes a way of life. Through a regular practice we can attain a more focused mind, reach higher levels of consciousness and gain many qualities that help us to live a happier and more fulfilled life. Yoga is a transformational practice that can allow our natural state of being that is more stable, peaceful and content to be lived.
On the mat is a a space for us to become internally connected, to allow us to really be intune with our experiences, emotions and feelings. In daily life we can experience situations almost as though we are being pulled out of ourselves; very little in life invites us to really see how we are, where we are at, and how we are truly feeling. The practice can help us understand ourselves better, giving us power and a stronger sense of self. As we become attuned to our bodies, we build trust and understanding of what we need to become more balanced and feel more comfortable and at home in our body. Our hearts become more open.
There is something about the practice of yoga that gives you the courage to be out there in the world as you are
-- Patricia Walden