The Foundation of Yoga Practice

Daily Practice (Kriya Yoga or Yoga of action)

Patanjali states that:

Kriya Yoga should be practiced constantly
in order to gain control of the mind.
It helps one to minimize the obstacles of
ego and ignorance and attain samadhi,
the state of Super-Consciousness.

Kriya Yoga contains Tapas, Svadhyaya, and Isvarapranidhana.

Tapas (austerity):
Through physical discipline (asana, pranayama, and meditation), conquer all physiological and psychological dualistic conditions: e.g. heat and cold, like and dislike, comfort and discomfort. Continual practice is the key to success.

Svadhyaya (the study of sacred scriptures):
Deepens one's understanding of the Truth.

Isvarapranidhana (faith and commitment to a personal god): pure devotion to a personal god, or pure faith; the vow to realize the Truth.