Conclusion

(This is an excerpt from a University Of Metaphysical Sciences course at www.umsonline.org, please feel free to visit the school website)

 

Well! Yoga is a large subject indeed, and I have only touched the surface of what there is to learn with this area of metaphysical practices. My own experiences with yoga have been very beneficial, and I definitely would ascertain that some of my peak spiritual experiences were possible because of those times when I was diligently and vigilantly practicing a yogic routine. I encourage all UMS metaphysicians to adopt a yogic routine of some sort, even if it is only a sun salutation or two every day, so that you can maintain the vitality of the physical body while you do your work on the Earth. Maintaining a healthy physical body is not absolutely necessary to enlightenment, although some might think it is so, but at least it improves your experience of being in a physical form on Earth if that physical form is running smoothly and efficiently. You will also need to have vitality in your physical body if you don’t want to burn out from holding more light and consciousness than the body can hold. It is like running a 220 voltage through a 110 wire if you are bringing a lot of spiritual energy through a body that is not healthy and able to handle these intense states of consciousness. I used this analogy in the Channeling course, but it applies to all spiritual applications and practices.

You now know that the word “yoga” implies far more, however, than a series of exercises and physical poses that give you a workout and get you in shape. You realize now that yoga has to do with a complete shaping of the body, mind and emotions as one unit. If you develop proficiency in yoga, you will also have a strong mind and calm emotions as an added benefit, even if you don’t focus on them, per se. They are a natural result of hatha yoga practices.

You can teach yourself yoga in the privacy of your own home through books, videos and information on the internet, or you can find a class in your local area that fits your needs. If you are in a large city, there will be a smorgasbord of choices, and you will find that a class can help focus your intention and keep you on the path through commitment, whereas, if you are a beginner, practicing at home might not be something you are able to discipline yourself as well with. I encourage you to practice in a class with a teacher who will notice if you have incorrect postures and help you correct them before they turn into bad habits in yoga that you must break later. Then practice at home once you have some experience.

Some people like to practice yoga in the morning and stimulate themselves for the day, and others like to practice yoga for relaxation in the evening. Whatever your preference, yoga is an excellent path for health, well-being, physical fitness, and preparing the mind for the spiritual self-inquiry of meditation. I hope this gives you an idea of what path you might like to pursue, given the various types of yoga, and I wish you god-speed to a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and meditation all combined into the same hour!