It is the age of materialism which has created a spiritual void in the
lives of many. Today the majority of us feel that our lives are useless, barren
and devoid of meaning. The turmoil of our daily life brings stress to the body
and the mind resulting in serious psychological disorders like depression,
tension, stress, anxiety, restlessness, and rage. These problems need to be
addressed before it is too late. There are many ways to nip all these
psychological disorders off; and yoga is one of them.
Yoga restores the mind to simplicity and peace; and eliminates all
specks of confusion and distress from the mind. This state can be achieved from
the practice of yogic asana (postures) and pranayama (breathing). Yoga is a
cleansing tool and both physical and breathing exercises can cure physical,
physiological and psychological disorders. But that is not the ultimate end of
yoga: it aims at achieving self-realization by bringing perfect harmony between
the body and the mind, in the absences of which we suffer from different
physical and mental ailments.
Yoga—a set of mild exercises—does not put excessive strain on human muscles
and bones like other physical exercises do. It tones the body and strengthens our
bones and muscles. Yoga improves our circulatory, respiratory, digestive and
hormonal systems quite easily and effectively. When this physical milestone is
achieved, the mind becomes calm to perform at its best. Yogic breathing
exercises are incredibly useful to make the flow of fresh and oxygenated blood
in our body. This process results in increased energy and the body is
thoroughly rejuvenated. On the emotional side, yoga calms our feelings and
clarifies the mind.
A yogic mind does not know negative emotions and negative attitudes. If
yoga is practised with full honesty, dedication and concentration it will bring
positive effects in all walks of human life. It improves physical and mental
health and makes life meaningful. The best thing is that yoga can be practised
at any age.
We all must remember that the mind can be our secret enemy or our
devoted friend. Yoga controls the mind to control our emotions and turn them in
our favour, not against us.
