A rough translation to the sanskrit word ' Ananda' is bliss as english language does not provide any other word as near in
meaning to it. Bliss is something that which is ever present in our being. It is different from joy. Joy brings suffering in its wake and is one which is cognised at the level of mind and is bound in time and space. Ananda on the other hand is beyond joy. It is a state of eternal Bliss.
One experiences pleasure when his senses come in contact with the world outside; a beautiful sight, soulful music , a fragrance,
physical touch etc. Similarly when one observes
nature like watching a mountain, a sea, a wild green forest he feels the joy as it has the beneficial effect of calming the mind.When one experiences ecstacy without the aid of sensory inputs or nature or even from the imaginary forms of God, only from the inner core of energy without any external input or influence; it is Bliss. It comes from within. That is Ananda.
Many are of the view that Yoga is restricted to certain physical exercises or breath control; these are but a part of Yoga. Yoga in literary context means Union; the Union with the Divine; the Union with the cosmic power. It is a state where mind ceases to be and take it beyond the realm of mind to be one with the Atman. That state is Ananda or Bliss. As it is our true nature, the purpose of human life is to remain in the state of Ananda or Bliss. Such a person can truly be called a Yogi.
In conclusion it should be understood that Joy/Pleasure result when the senses are in contact with the outside world and are limited in time and space thru' the machinations of the mind whereas Ananda or Bliss is experienced when one transcends the mind and unifies with his own Self or Atman within.