Frequently Asked Questions Related to Yoga
Q1. What Does Om Mean?
A1. Lets first start with the holy chanting of ओम (OM, AUM) with a deep inhalation. Exhale systematically while chanting OM.The Yogis advice to engage your navel to chant ohm.
Om is an ancient Sanskrit “word” that was first felt by rishis as they meditated.
Om represents everything. It is said to be the seed of all of creation. Just like an acorn seed has the immense power and beauty of a mighty oak tree. This seemingly small word contains all the power of the universe. It is the beginning, middle and the end of it all or the past, present and future. Chanting Om brings your awareness into the physical reality of this world and your body.
Somehow the ancient yogis knew what scientists today are telling us—that the entire universe is moving. Nothing is ever solid or still. Everything that exists pulsates, creating a rhythmic vibration that the ancient yogis acknowledged with the sound of Om. We may not always be aware of this sound in our daily lives, but we can hear it in the rustling of the autumn leaves, the waves on the shore, the inside of a seashell.
Chanting Om allows us to recognize our experience as a reflection of how the whole universe moves—the setting sun, the rising moon, the ebb and flow of the tides, the beating of our hearts. As we chant Om, it takes us for a ride on this universal movement, through our breath, our awareness, and our physical energy, and we begin to sense a bigger connection that is both uplifting and soothing.
Q2. What is the difference between yoga and pranayama?
A1. The word yoga, from the Sanskrit word yuj, means to yoke or bind and is often interpreted as “union” or a method of discipline.General speaking, yoga stands for yoga poses.These poses help in body exercise whereas the Pranayama is conscious and deliberate practice for the regulation of breath.
According to Wikipedia, “Pranayama means an extension of ‘pran’ or breath or, extension of the life force.” It originated in the yogic disciplines of India (Bharat). It is considered as ‘the yoga of breath’.
Q3.What is the difference between Yognidra and meditation?
A2. Yoga Nidra is a technique to systematically relaxing the body and mind while maintaining your awareness.Meditation is for training the mind using a particular point. It is done in various postures like lotus pose and dhyana mudra.In all the cases spine is kept elongated to facilitate proper movement of Prana.
Q4.How frequently should I practice yoga?
A4. Even a 20- minutes session is sufficient to render amazing benefits from yoga.What is more important is the consistency and the mindfulness.So scoop out a time and a mat, then position yourself in a peaceful and airy corner of your house. Now let your conscience decide how frequently you can do yoga to uplift your awareness.
Q5.Do I need to change my eating schedule for my yoga practices?
A6.The best time recommended for yoga practices is early morning.This is because the environment is most pious and fresh and you are the empty stomach.You can’t suppose doing twists and turns with a full stomach.
It is best to refrain yourself from big meals before doing yoga. A full rounded meal takes 2 to 3 hours to get digested completely. Therefore, In case you want to perform yoga on some other time of the day, relish on light and healthy snacks –banana and yoghurt are some of the best choices.
