New Delhi, March 9 (IANS). Often whenever people talk about yoga, the first thought that comes to their mind is meditation. Some people even believe that yoga and meditation are the same thing. But in reality it is not so. Yoga and meditation are definitely related, but both are not exactly the same. If you have been thinking of them as the same till now, then let us clear this confusion today.
Actually, yoga is a very widespread and ancient Indian method, which aims to create balance between body, mind and spirit. Yoga is not limited to just a few asanas or meditation, but includes a variety of processes and exercises. Yoga also includes moral rules, yoga asanas, techniques to control breathing, exercises to calm the mind and meditation. In simple words, meditation is a part of yoga.
When people do yoga, they often do yoga asanas first. These are those physical postures which help in making the body flexible, strong and healthy. After this, pranayama is done, in which special techniques of inhaling and exhaling are practiced. Due to this, energy balance is maintained in the body and the mind also becomes calm.
At the same time, meditation means concentrating your mind at one place and feeling inner peace. In this the person focuses on his breath, some mantra, some thought or just his consciousness. Meditation reduces mental stress, increases concentration and gives deep peace to the mind. This is the reason why nowadays many people practice only meditation without doing yoga.
However, if yoga is understood completely then it is not just a way to keep the body fit, but it is also a lifestyle. Yoga teaches us discipline, balance and positive thinking. Regular practice of yoga keeps the body healthy, mind remains calm and outlook towards life also becomes positive. Meditation is an important part of this entire process, which makes us strong from within.
–IANS
PIM/AS