The Purpose of Yoga - Stress Coping Solutions for Survival

Occasionally, Yoga teachers mention that the people, in the area in which they live, are "too conservative," to see the value or need for Yoga. The very real need for stress management, pain management, self-confidence, happiness, and many more benefits, which Yoga has to offer humankind, is obvious; but we must explain the benefits and purpose of Yoga for the public to completely understand.

Let's look at some of the contributions Yoga has made in the field of stress management over the past 5,000 years. With that said, we know that Yoga is the oldest existing form of stress management. People have always had stress, when gathered into cities, but why do we see higher stress levels in concentrated populations? Why do we see less stress, when we visit the countryside?

One problem is "collective thoughts," which exist in larger communities. An accepted, but flawed, belief can become an "urban legend." For example: Commuter traffic should always run perfectly. Commuter traffic on the highway, on a train, or in a subway, is fast paced; but when there is a delay, you can observe a state of collective anxiety. Negative thoughts race through our heads and "beat us down" physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Being late can cause us to feel like we live in a helpless "rat race." The mind begins to race as we collectively think, "I might be late and my job is on the line." The constant emotional turmoil, created from similar situations, will shorten our lives, unless we find inner solutions for tranquility.

Yoga classes should contain valuable Pranayama, Mantra, and Meditation techniques, for times of stress. Seek out Yoga classes, teachers, and workshops, which teach you coping strategies for stressful situations. The results will improve the quality of your life exponentially.

© Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. riyoga.com riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html