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Pratyahara, the fifth limb of yoga, invites us into the quieter, more subtle aspects of our practice. Often translated as “withdrawal of the senses,” pratyahara asks us to look inward, beyond the constant pull of external distractions, and cultivate a deep sense of stillness. It is about muting the senses—learning to quiet the constant stream of external stimuli that often pulls our attention away from the present moment.
Pranayama is a vital aspect of yoga practice, bridging the physical postures of asana and the inner stillness of meditation. As the fourth limb of yoga, pranayama follows asana for good reason: asana prepares the body for pranayama. While asana is often associated with movement and strength, pranayama requires stillness and a calm, focused mind.
By Jennifer French I often reflect on how fortunate I am to be on this yogic path. It has provided me with tools and skills that help keep me afloat when the day to day challenges of life get even more challenging. It’s a blessing to have mentors to go to, teachers...
by Gwen Burdick The dualistic theory of creation or causation is called Sankhya Philosophy and it appears in texts as ancient as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. Its founder was the sage Kapila who is considered by scholars to be older than Buddha. It is also the...
The practice of the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra sends forth vibrations from body to mind to soul. It awakens the internal healing forces and Nature’s healing forces together so that we may receive the full nourishment of any discipline undertaken for well-being. Strengthening the powers of will, knowledge and action, it unblocks the flow of courage and determination.
by Jennifer French People often wonder what the difference between yoga and meditation is, believing that they are two separate practices. In truth, yoga has a long tradition that is thousands of years old and, originally, its main purpose in practice was to hone and...
The Second Aim: Artha The second Purushartha or aim of human existence as described in the Vedic texts is Artha, which means "wealth," "means" or "goal" in Sanskrit. Artha is kept in check by Dharma. The Purursharthas are not to be considered in a stand-alone fashion....
For centuries, fires have been used by ancient and native cultures around the world to create ceremonies. Fire, or Agni in Sanskrit, is a transformational force of purification and creation, and indigenous cultures have been infusing this sacred element with prayers, reverence, and intention as a means to connect with the Divine. Specifically in the Peruvian tradition, fire ceremonies have been used throughout the ages as a means of ritual, celebration and connection with the Universe because of their potent form of prayer.
The Yoga Sanctuary is excited to share this excellent essay by local Tennis Professional, Jak Beardsworth. Jak writes about the importance of using the breath, particularly the exhale, to improve your game -- something we yogis know very well! To learn more about Jak,...
By Gwen Burdick The billions of years old and never-changing distant stars visible in the night sky make up the circle that mankind has observed and described as the zodiac. Vedic Astrology, Jyotish in Sanskrit, divides the 360 degree sky into 27 stellar...
The technology through which Spirit takes form as the manifest world commences with sound vibration traveling through the Akashic realm of space. The shortest possible sound in Sanskrit, the ancient language of the Vedas, is the mono-syllabic sound or Beej Mantra. The...
In the Vedic tradition, the ancient root of yogic philosophy, the concept of God or Supreme Reality is understood in a three-fold manner. The triple function of God, Trimurti in Sanskrit, is expressed as Brahma the creator, Vishnu the sustainer and Shiva the...
Raja Yoga is the royal branch of yoga. It is rooted in meditation, but encompasses all forms of yoga. Also known as Ashtanga Yoga, or the eight limbs of yoga, Raja yoga is a comprehensive practice with an aim of transcending the thoughts of the mind. Raja Yoga is the...
The Language of Yoga: Shanti (santi, shantih) – Peace, Calmness
Merriam Webster: PEACE – a state of tranquility or quiet