Classical Yoga Traditions

The wisdom of Yoga is respected as one of the classic schools of Indian philosophy. Although the knowledge is for the universal spiritual benefit of us all, the practices have become integral in Hindu culture. Having considered their value, many yoga exponents all over the world have chosen to retain the principles in their personal practice as well as group teaching.

It is interesting to know something of the background and the lifestyle of Indians who lived in a manner that allowed the ancient spiritual teachings of the Vedas to endure throughout the centuries to benefit us in our present age.

Practice of Yoga was usually a part of the life of domestic life from childhood. In the community Centres of teaching called Ashrams was opportunity for spiritual training and meditation, similar to the monasteries of the west. Part of their function involved healing through herbs, food, and yogi practices.

Serious spiritual motivation commences with each individual at different ages and times. But it was considered regular in India that after a period as householder it was customary for a mature person to seek a spiritual Guru to serve as a guide and mentor. This denoted a new phase in life of the aspirant which would sometimes require disciplines such as renunciation of material efforts and values before the search for the truths of existence.

In addition to faith in his own intuition, this heightened spiritual goal was anticipated to be realised both through philosophic studies and the guidance of the Guru, a spiritual teacher wiser than himself.

Until recently there were no formal yoga classes nor was Yoga taught in the schools in India. Parents serve as the initial spiritual guides for children as they do everywhere in teaching ethical and moral principles. However with an explosion of interest in Hatha Yoga all over the world there is a general need to remind aspirants of the reason for the traditions and the spiritual purpose of the practices demonstrated beyond the home.

Practising Hatha Yoga has certain requirements in physical preparation an in choice of environment -

Physical preparation includes attention to hygiene ensuring that bowels, kidneys and stomach are empty

Clothing is as light as possible and of cotton or natural material

Barefoot when entering the ashram or place of practice - symbolizes temporary dissociation from worldly activities and respect for the environment

A natural environment is preferred either in the fresh air if possible, or in a room with natural ventilation (no air conditioning)

A personal mat made of natural fibres placed upon the floor, or directly on the earth to represent your private space. This is important particularly in group classes.

Following physical exercises and asanas the position taken for relaxation is by lying prone in North/South polarity in tune with the magnetic currents of the earth.

Meditation is generally experienced positioning oneself East or North

Mala A string of beads or mala is a classical tradition when under personal tuition of a Guru. The Guru magnetizes or impregnates the beads with his energy and influence as a link or gift to assist his student. After this, no one else touches the beads. They are considered sacred. In western practise this tradition is modified and used for personal spiritual attunement, prayer and meditation, similar to the rosary.

A natural environment is considered ideal, preferably near water but indoor environments can be provide a helpful atmosphere by the use of flowers, incense and candles, and objects of beauty and inspiration..

Traditional Hours for Yoga Practice are recommended as dawn, midday, sunset and midnight. Alternatively, 6 am, noon, 6 pm and midnight. Individuals vary this of course but the rule is to try to be regular with meditation and practice times.

If suffering illness - herbs and foods and water are traditionally taken as Ayurvedic medicines. Further healing is extended to physical treatment and massage. Surgery is the last resort.

Vegetarian diet is obligatory for all earnest spiritual aspirants who appreciate the reasons and benefits, both physical and spiritual. The first reference is the ethic of non-violence applied when no killing or spilling the blood of creatures is involved.

Fasting at special times and prior to spiritual festivals is a universal custom regardless of religion.

Reading and studying the wisdom teachings and sacred writings is advised for personal understanding

Group gatherings - here chanting, song and music are encouraged - but harmony, melody and beauty are the essentials. (Drum beats, cymbals and raucous electronic sounds are the antithesis)

Formal greeting of the Guru or Acharya is the hand gesture of general courtesy and respect traditional throughout Asia. It signifies gratitude for the instruction at conclusion of a class and many westerners choose to adopt the tradition in modern schools.

Tributes to the Guru are in the form of flowers, fruit or food to sustain the life of their Teacher. In western practice this has been replaced by professional fees rendered. But as a natural 'thank you' flowers and tributes to a teacher are always welcomed, as are any kindnesses.

A seeker is usually called a Sadhaka.

A teacher is an Acharya.

An accepted pupil of a spiritual Master is a Chela.

A spiritual teacher who inspires and is responsible for spiritual guidance is a Guru.

The pervading spiritual philosophy of the Vedas demonstrates a deep respect and love of the Creator and of all natural life created. This is shared by our western poets and mystics who describe Nature as the outer, visible 'garment of God.'

Great Nature and the natural environment are integral in the spiritual life of us all with the realization that All life is One.

Sally Janssen is a writer, health educator and Yoga teacher well known iboth in Australia and abroad for her skill in demonstration of the Hatha Yoga practices and her wisdom in applying the principles of Raja Yoga -the study of the mind and consciousness. More details at essence-of-yoga.net essence-of-yoga.net

Her book "Mental Fitness: A Complete Self-help Guide" explains the principles of mental fitness that can be applied by us all. The book may be found here: mentalhealthandfitness.com/blog mentalhealthandfitness.com/blog