The Approach
The only mission or philosophy of Centered Yoga is to do. Let every day begin with higher thoughts and gratitude. Spend time in the yoga practices. Just by the doing, the committing to a practice, the results come. The practices may vary between passive or active, or a combination of both. Let awareness blossom from practicing and subsequently compassion for others and more balance in your life. As many are not clear on what to practice and not yet disciplined enough to have a daily practice or progress in it, Centered Yoga offers the teachings to those who look. The teaching is guidance through the practice. The yoga itself takes care of fully developing the individual on all levels, physical, intellectual, emotional, psychological, mental and spiritual. One who practices becomes fully integrated and balanced. So let us guide you in the practice. This is what we are passionate about. Let it be done from the heart, with full sincerity. May it be available to all, everywhere, yet those who seek it must come forward. Centered Yoga wholeheartedly encourages you to practice, and trust the process.
In support of this mission we would like to quote a few masterful resources:
"Practice becomes firmly grounded when done for a long time, continuously and with full sincerity"
Patanjali Yoga Sutras (I - 14)
"He who untiringly practices Yoga in all its aspects attains success even if he is young, old, decrepit, diseased or weak."
"Success is attained by those who practice. How can one attain success without practice? Success in Yoga is not achieved by merely reading authentic books."
Hathapradipika of Svatmarama (I - 64 + 65)
"Practice, practice, practice and all is coming."
Sri. K. Pattabhi Jois
The essence of Centered Yoga is an inner development. From the center and through the center. It is balance. Balance is a fine line and we are most of the time on either side of it.
The asana, with a focus on ashtanga vinyasa, must come from within. The core work is done. The body changes and develops. Initially the effort is crude. Gradually it is refined. The outer hardness and inner weakness eventually becomes a powerful core and a soft exterior. An inner, sincere effort joined with surrendering to the experience. This leads to increased awareness. Ultimately asana, as the Yoga Sutras defines it, becomes steady and comfortable. Relaxation comes and meditation occurs, leading us to the higher goal of yoga.
Work and development of the breath is essential to this process, both while doing asana and as a practice of itself. There are breathing practices that prepare you for the practice of pranayama and then there are the specific pranayamas themselves. This work with the breath ultimately clears the nervous system and removes impurities. It is essential to practice.
How one goes about meditation may differ but the result is the same. Relaxation and inner awareness and development is key. To sit daily is cleansing for the mind and a gift to the spirit. These effects are then reflected outwardly in the person. Sit daily.
Practicing daily is essential but also being daily in the practice. Carry the inner peace and happiness with you. Your state of mind has a definite and positive effect on others. Virtuous qualities of honesty, truthfulness, non-harming, generosity, compassion, humility come and refine as you progress in the practice. These qualities directly affect the world. Study this in yourself then offer it up to a Higher Source. For it is through this grace we can practice in the first place.
And may we always begin with gratitude, a thought of thanks for the practice, this day, our life and all that is in it. This is the seed of compassion to others and humility if sincerely felt and done.
Om Namah Sivaya |
