November Message from Sumathi

Dear Friends and Students,

Hatha Yoga is a preparatory stage of physical purification that renders body fit for the practice of higher meditation. The word Hatha is a compound of the words Ha and Tha, meaning sun and moon, referring to Prana (inward current) and Apana (outward current). Yoga means to yoke or unite two things together, Hatha yoga is meant to join our sun (masculine, active) energy with our moon (feminine, receptive) energy, thus producing balance and greater power in an individual.

Traditional Hatha yoga is a holistic practice done for purification and practiced with moral restraints, spiritual observances, personal and social discipline. Only when yoga is practiced with the steadiness of mind and body can it be called yoga. To create this, inner and outer steadiness, focus is absolutely essential.

Yoga's current value is defined by those who use it for its therapeutic value and cosmetic impact. In reality, these two are its by products. The face of a true yoga practioner glows with aural light, radiating beauty, energy and happiness as a result of regular practice. Yoga is not and should not be a competition, not even with your self. Yoga is not Hocus Pocus, but Focus Focus. Focus beyond the image in the mirror. Yoga is not a destination, it is a journey that leads you to higher consciousness, have a wonderful journey.

Sumathi Ravikumar

RESOURCES:
India Abroad, articles by Shameem Akthar
Wikipedia. org

PLEASE NOTE: We will not be having any classes on Thanksgiving Day, November 27th, and the following Friday morning class on November 28th will also not be held.