Rishis have said that the human body is the perfect vehicle of spiritual enlightenment. This is why Yogis have viewed the human body as a temple to the inner spirit. This is why it is important to make regular efforts to change our body in to the perfect vehicle for spiritual development.
Further expanding on the topic, it is believed that a sound mind resides only in a sound body and hence it is important to create a state of perfect harmony between the mind and the body. Only when this happens, will it be possible to realize God. We cannot realize God till we cleanse our bodies of all impurities and live in perfect health.
It is believed that the purification and control of the body and the mind are complimentary processes. When we are in the early stages in the path towards enlightenment, a lot of importance is given to physical discipline. But over a period of time, when we are in the advanced stages of Yoga, more emphasis is given to disciplining the mind.
A student of Yoga should ideally start with the understanding and practice of Yam and Niyama. Next, the student should practice the initial disciplines of Hatha Yoga named as asana and pranayama. Asanas or yogasanas which are widely practiced in the west are thus a small discipline of Hatha Yoga. Yogasanas are physical exercises which help restore the natural balance of the body. Pranayama, on the other hand are breathing exercises which are designed to purify the mind. These exercises tone up the mind and the body and prepare them for the next step towards samadhi.
Pratyahar is the third and final exercise of Hathayoga. Pratyahar helps a person to divert his/her attention from the pursuit of worldly desires and helps a person focus. This is the step that helps a person move further towards true meditation.
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November 29th, 2009 | Tags: 
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