PROPER EXERCISE

When we look a little more deeply at the body, we realise that its not just something that we see in the mirror, but a large complex of inner systems that have a direct influence on our health and well-being. A few examples of these systems are digestion, circulation, endocrine (glands) and the nervous system. Yoga benefits both the outer and inner body. The spine is one part of the body to which Yoga pays a lot of attention. Structurally, its the central support as well as acting as a giant switchboard transferring messages from the brain to different muscles and organs. Its said you're as young as your spine, and Yoga helps to bring back lost flexibility.

Yoga exercises are called Asanas. 'Asana' means 'Steady Pose' and holding a position steady will focus the mind and improve concentration, which is another important aspect of the practice of Yoga.

   PROPER BREATHING

Most of our energy comes from breathing. We breath every few seconds, to send oxygen to the various parts of the body. Most of our breathing is done unconsciously, although at times we are a little more aware for example out in the fresh air, at the beach or in the mountains, where we know that a few deep breaths will leave us feeling more energised and alive.
Yoga brings a thoughtfulness to our breathing. Learning the mechanics of breathing and its efficient practice can really contribute to our health and vitality.
An important part of conscious breathing is understanding the link between the breath and the mind. This can be illustrated when you consider how we breath when we are angry or upset – the breath and mind are like two sides of the same coin, they influence each other. Breathing slowly and rhythmically brings great mental peace.
Having awareness and control of our breathing can greatly assist us in our day to day lives, and forms an important part of Yoga practice.

     PROPER DIET

Diet has become a much discussed topic in today's society. Go to any book shop, or newsagent, and you'll find numerous diet, recipe and cooking titles. The first thing we should ask ourselves, is what is the purpose of food, what should it provide?
Nutritional requirements fall under five categories – proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. Yoga emphasises that we should have a knowledge of what is a balanced diet, and that the source of our food should be as close to nature as possible.
A Yogic diet is a vegetarian one. Natural foods (fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts and grains) provide essential nutrients and are an easily assimilated source of protein. Yoga also concerns itself with the effect that food has on the mind, avoiding those foods which are over stimulating, foods which make us restless or agitated. Coffee and tea (except herbal) are avoided as well as other foods which can create a similar effect.

  PROPER RELAXATION

Taking time to relax properly is something that most people find very hard to do. Understanding what true relaxation means is an important first step. Substituting one activity with another is often just a distraction but doesn't offer any real rest.
Yoga approaches relaxation on different levels. Starting with the body, Yoga teaches how to use the mind to send a message to the muscles allowing them to relax. This technique is called 'Auto Suggestion' and it starts with the toes, and moves upwards to the head. Messages can also be sent to the digestive, and other, internal organs. To relax the mind, breathing in a slow and rhythmical way releases mental tension and brings a deep calmness. Relaxation is complete when the mind mirrors a perfectly calm lake, without any mental disturbance, free from all worries and anxieties.

'Savasana' (the Relaxation pose)

   POSITIVE THINKING AND MEDITATION

Our thoughts have such a direct influence on our life. A thought is often the seed from which everything grows. Whatever you have chosen to do in your life, began with a thought. Wherever we are in our life, is a result of our thoughts. With this understanding, we realise that we have the capacity to directly bring to ourselves, situations and circumstances which allow us to grow. This, however, requires great effort. Sometimes old thought patterns are deeply ingrained, and new patterns need to be established. Yoga brings deep awareness to the way our mind works, and with this knowledge, the mind becomes our best friend, not our worst enemy.
Meditation offers us a practice to sit quietly and learn to watch our minds. Concentrating our mind does not come easily, however through meditation we can learn to still the thoughts and gain greater control of our minds to experience an inner happiness and sense of peace.