When it comes to yoga, the only things that can come to a fresher’s mind are the yoga poses, the need for flexibility and everything physical. But did you know that the concept of Yoga Philosophy is much deeper than we can see with our eyes?
When you are a part of a yoga teacher training course in Rishikesh, you will see that yoga is much more than just practising yoga poses on the mat. Just as in the human body, the heart is the main organ that keeps everything together; similarly, the heart of a yogic journey is yogic philosophy.
From the word yogic philosophy, it might be clear to you that we are talking about that profound system that contains the whole knowledge and wisdom of yoga. It is the base and the essence of yoga. The yogic philosophy helps one to reshape one’s life into a yogic journey. A yoga philosophy is not just about the theoretical aspect of yoga, but it is the base on which the practice of yoga depends.
History and Origin of Yoga Philosophy
The roots of yoga philosophy are mentioned in the holy books like the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and even the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
These writings explain the details that one should follow as a yogi. The various concepts that it covers are diet modification, routine, the lifestyle changes, and yoga posture.
Role of Yoga Philosophy in Yoga TTC in Rishikesh
1. It will explain to you why you are practising yoga.
2. It explains the whole body anatomy.
3. It explains how the body, soul, and mind of a human respond to yoga.
4. It explains the working of the human mind.
5. It teaches the balanced way to live a holistic lifestyle and stay immunised naturally against the modern-day ailments.
6. It is a bridge between the physical practice of yoga Philosophy and the spiritual essence of this ancient ritual.
Read More: Role of Ayurveda in Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh
How does Yoga Philosophy transform you as a Yogi?
If we talk about the most important part of a yoga philosophy, then the eight limbs of yoga are the main pillars of a yogic lifestyle. Yoga Teacher Training Programs in Rishikesh teach you the following:
1. Yama
It means the ethical disciplines that one should follow while practising yoga. To be a yogi, you have to attain a sattvic lifestyle that is built on the following:
1. Non-violence or ahimsa
2. Truthfulness or satya
3. Non-stealing or asteya
4. Moderation or brahmacharya
5. Non-possessiveness or aparigraha.
2. Observances or Niyama
Niyamas are some personal observances, or you can call them self-discipline, that one should follow in order to lead a beneficial yogic lifestyle.
1. Cleanliness or shouchha
2. Contentment or santosh
3. Discipline or tapas
4. Self-study or svaadhyaya
5. Surrender or Ishwara pranidhana.
3. Yoga asanas
Now, the main part of the yogic lifestyle is the different forms of yoga and the yoga asanas. Therefore, you will learn every asana with its meaning and benefits to the human mind and body. And you will be prepared for entering the utmost state of meditation through yoga.
4. Breath control
Breath control is also known as pranayama. It connects the body with the mind. You will learn how to control your breath in order to live mindfully and ensure a healthy nervous system.
5. Withdrawal of senses or pratyahara
This is a step that makes the yogic journey inward. It helps you to attain a state where you are away from all the distractions and able to live a calm and peaceful life, no matter what is going on outside.
6. Concentration
Concentration is also known as dharana in Ashtanga yoga. And here you learn how to stay focused throughout your life. And this is an important discipline of being a yogi.
Read More: Best Time to Join a Yoga Course or Retreat in Rishikesh
7. Meditation or dhyana
This is a way to make the yogi completely aware.
8. Samadhi
This is the ultimate goal of the whole yogic process. Samadhi means absorption in a state of great bliss and deeper connections.
The concept of Atman
Yoga philosophy helps the yogis to explore the inner self. The teachings mentioned in the Upanishads uncover the concept of Atman, which is known as the inner self. It is said that our inner self is pure and peaceful. One needs to find it to live a healthy, holistic, and happy life. In TTCs offered in Rishikesh, teachings like this help one to go on a journey of self-inquiry, detachment from ego, and stability within oneself.
Final Thoughts
Without a yoga philosophy, yoga is just like a gym. Philosophy adds real meaning to the authenticity of yoga. This is why Yoga philosophy is a crucial part of the Yoga TTC’s course curriculum! Thus, to experience the best yoga School in Rishikesh, there is no better place than the world’s yoga capital!
