This
book was written to be a short and sequential survey of the science of
yoga as a whole. It has an Introduction, which explains the meaning of spirituality in this philosophy, and its value in one''s life. There is no end to the acquiring of knowledge by the phenomenal senses in the natural, or ordinary, world. One comes at last to seek the highest knowledge. The universal answer of the sages is to KNOW THYSELF, for in knowing oneself in truth at the deepest level, one comes to know GOD, and ideally becomes one with that truth within ourselves that leads us to becoming all that we can be. In the next chapter, WHAT IS YOGA?, the author explains Yoga''s meaning and practice, with reference to its practitioners. In the sections on each aspect or type of yoga practice, the author explains what they are and gives some exercises that can lead one in the right direction, and illustrate to the neophyte or seeker the value of the different paths and their compatibility with the individual temperament and beliefs; they give you a taste of the benefits available upon more profound, deeper
study and practice.
Hatha Yoga is usually the first Yoga practice; it gives on the physical strength and bodily (in the deeper senses)
health to continue with the other forms of practice. Raja Yoga is the highest form of Yoga; it is the spiritual/mental aspect of yoga (including meditation,
concentration, and, eventually, Samadhi--union with the Infinite). Karma Yoga is the right action and occupation which the Buddha expounded as a part of the Eightfold Path; it is work for work''s sake, and not for the sake of the fruits or rewards of the work (it is well suited for those who do not wish to pray to or contemplate a personal God). Bhakti Yoga is the yoga of love and devotion to a personal God, by which communion of the soul with the Supreme Deity is achieved (it is best suited to those with an emotional nature, and is the safest to undertake, even without a personal teacher or guru). Jnana Yoga is the yoga of wisdom and knowledge of the ultimate Oneness of All Things.
The next section discusses PRANA, or the life-force, and emphasizes the importance of breathing properly, as well as of proper
diet. The last section discusses the relationship of Yoga (and the true Yogi) to other
religious paths, especially Christianity.
This book is a good introduction to the idea of Yoga, but one must go deeper for the attainment. This is like the taste that leads you to enter the feast. For the next level of study, one might try Vivekananda, as suggested by the author.
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