How can an ancient health maintenance system, such as Yoga, have stress solutions that apply to the people of today? Yoga has not stood still for the last 5,000 years. In fact, Yoga is a science, which constantly grows and evolves with each passing day. Therefore, Yoga has evolved to face humankind's daily problems.
One of the problems is that technology has brought about a feeling of instant gratification. We anticipate a specific outcome because we believe technology to be perfect. When technology is not perfect, we are "stressed out."
Look at the automobile, train, cellular telephone, personal computer, and the Internet. You could easily write an itemized list about why each of these technological advancements will not function perfectly. Yet, we start our cars and anticipate a commute within a specific time frame.
When we run late, some of us will speed up and take chances with our life, the lives of pedestrians, and the lives of every driver on the road. The chances taken are endless, and the consequences of road rage could change our lives in an instant.
Would a Yogi or Yogini drive a car in a state of anxiety and panic? In truth, this situation is the beginning of a separation between beginner and advanced Yoga practitioners. So many people observe Yoga postures (Asanas), and consider this to be the Holy Grail of Yoga.
Yet, they cannot control themselves emotionally in a simple daily situation. This is due to the illusion, which we may label as "superficial Yoga." This concept of Yoga is physical, only; Yoga is seen as an exercise class to tone the body, only.
We have to open our minds and put the superficial view of Yoga in its place. Yoga classes are much more than breathing and exercise techniques. To classify a Yogi or Yogini as advanced, because he or she can perform a difficult Asana, is an interesting concept. Over the years, some of my most exceptional students were extremely old or extremely young.
The older Yoga student is exceptional because he or she is living proof that Yogic principles will enable us to live a longer, healthier, and happier life. The younger Yoga student is also exceptional because he or she is full of energy and can often perform feats of physical prowess, which we might classify as advanced.
Having admired both age groups for their positive contributions to Yoga, which would you prefer to learn from? Children can be charming, but seniors can teach you volumes about coping with stress. A sage's highest value is in teaching us about his or her life experience.
© 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
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