Asanas in India

Yoga in Daily Life - Harmony for Body, Mind and Soul

YOGA IN DAILY LIFE™ (YIDL) is a holistic system of health, encompassing the science of body, mind, consciousness and soul. While completely true to the authentic Indian traditions of classical yoga, it is adjusted to meet the needs of our times. The System aims to establish physical, mental, spiritual and social health, in other words to offer all that one requires in the search for peace of mind, harmony and fulfillment in life. To make these goals accessible to everyone, YOGA IN DAILY LIFE™ is structured as a graded system of learning. It contains eight progressive levels. The System is suitable for everybody regardless of age, state of health or cultural background.

Physical health is fundamental for one’s sense of happiness and ability to lead a healthy lifestyle. To promote physical health, the YOGA IN DAILY LIFE™ System begins with a series of exercises, designed to warm, stretch and improve body flexibility. These exercises, together with basic relaxation techniques, gradually prepare the practitioner for the advanced Yoga Asanas (postures). Regular practice of the Asanas will balance the many functions of the human body, but more than that, the Yoga practitioner will become more aware of the subtle link between the physical and mental aspects of their being.

This awareness is further heightened in the practice of Pranayama (breathing techniques), and in meditation. An integral component of the YOGA IN DAILY LIFE™ System is the Self-Inquiry Meditation technique. It is a unique step-by-step guide for deepening self-awareness and self-confidence. Self-confidence grants freedom from habits of dependency and establishes self-sufficiency. In addition to those, the System contains Hatha-Yoga Kriyas - highly effective techniques for detoxifying the body, and Yoga Nidra - a profound deep relaxation technique. Practice of all these exercises and techniques establishes a sound personality, with the ability to inquire more deeply into the spiritual aspects of human existence.

Watch an introduction to the work of Yoga in Daily Life.

What do I need to know about Yoga

Here are some tips!

Clothing should be loose & comfortable, to allow easy movement of the body. In the cooler months, have socks and jumper on hand for the relaxation, to keep you warm.

No eating 1 - 2 hours before Yoga class. A full abdomen will make you uncomfortable and tired.

No comparing yourself to anyone else! Yoga is non-competitive. Let your focus remain with you. Simply be aware of your abilities, regardless of age, level of fitness or state of health.

Do your best as self-effort is a Yoga discipline. Try your best, no matter how many times you have practised a posture.

No pushing or forcing into stretches, which means, don't work beyond the limitations of your own body. The emphasis is on 'letting go' rather than pushing the body through borders of pain.

Swamiji

"Vishwa Prani Meri Atma Hai"

"All the living beings in this universe are my Self"

That is the way the Yogi thinks. Whatever you do to others, you do it to yourself. If you love all, it means that you love yourself. That is called universal love. And when that love awakens in you, then you realize who you are and what God is.

Paramhans Swami Maheshwarananda - the founder of Yoga in Daily Life