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The Importance of Regular Asana Practice

Translation of Shri Mahayogi’s words during a satsangha in New York
November 14, 2008

In the Bhagavad Gita, Arjuna appeals to Krishna, saying: “Controlling the mind is as difficult as catching the mind.” Krishna answers, “It is accomplished by constant practice and renunciation.” The indication of “constant practice” is to study the teachings of Yoga and acquire disciplines, and also to practice asanas and meditate as taught everyday without respite. In reference to renunciation, what need to be renounced are attachments which are mistakenly created, and ignorance. By virtue of asana practice, the physical body strengthens so as to be unaffected by disease. A strong body is important in the process of deepening the practice. In addition, just as the mind is compared to wind, so the breath is compared to water and the body to ice. Of all three, the easiest to grasp is the ice. This is why we practice asanas. When the body becomes regulated as a yogic body, the "water" adapts to its vessel. When the breath calms, the mind likewise calms.Thus, the power of concentration gets strengthened and meditation follows. Simultaneously, this purifies the mind and awakens your own divinity. Yoga requires actual practice; just having knowledge is meaningless. You know such great Yoga, and seeing that Yoga is wonderful, practice it everyday, for yourself. And realize your True Self.

 

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