Yogaś-citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ

As the main definition from the Yoga sutras of Patanjali (1.2) yoga is the complete stoppage of the mind/brain’s activities. Which are these activities?

1. pramana – right knowledge
2. viparaya – wrong knowldege
3. vikalpa – imagination
4. nidra – sleep
5. smrtaya – memory; think of the past

When the mind has so many samskaras (impressions) it is hence difficult to understand our true nature. Yamas and Niyamas are self-regulations and self-disciplines one should follow to deal with the outside world and of course with the inner world. Asana and pranayama practice helps you to stay functional, release stress  and enrich your life in all dimensions. Maybe you could get a glimpse of Infinity…but even that is not enough. Mediation should be the main practice.

In practical terms, yoga, has countless benefits to our physical body and mental body as well. Everyone can experience the miracles of the practice if one takes it seriously and respectfully.