The yogic path to well-being

Swami Vishnudevananda taught five easy principles of yoga, all of which are explained in different chapters in this book. They bring together the often-complex philosophies and teachings of India’s ancient yogis in a form that is easy to understand and simple to adapt to everyday life, wherever you live in the world.

The five principles of yoga

If you follow these five easy principles, said Swami Vishnudevananda, you will improve your physical and mental health and deepen your connection with the spiritual aspects of life.

Proper exercise

Asanas (see Proper exercise) rejuvenate the whole body. They work primarily on the spine and central nervous system. The spine gains in strength and flexibility, and circulation is stimulated, bringing nutrients and oxygen to all the cells of the body. Asanas increase motion in the joints and flexibility in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. They massage internal organs, boosting their function.

Proper breathing

Pranayama (see Proper breathing) stimulates the energy reserves of the solar plexus, revitalizing body and mind. Regulating the breath helps to store prana, laying down reserves of strength and vitality. Deep, conscious breathing helps conquer depression and stress, and controlling prana—by controlling the breath—can relieve the symptoms of illness in a manner similar to acupuncture.

Proper relaxation

Deep relaxation (see Proper relaxation) works on three levels—physical, mental, and spiritual—and is the most natural way to re-energize body and mind. Regular relaxation acts like a car’s cooling system, keeping the engine from over-heating and ensuring the vehicle functions efficiently. During the deep relaxation at the end of a yoga session, the body uses only enough prana to maintain vital metabolic activities. The rest of the energy gained during practice is stored.

Proper diet

The yogic attitude to food (see Proper diet) is eat to live, not live to eat. Yogis choose foods with a positive effect on body and mind, and least negative effects on the environment and other creatures. A lacto-vegetarian diet is recommended—grains, pulses, fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and dairy products—including plenty of plants. Fresh and unrefined foods are thought best, prepared simply, to preserve maximum nutrients.

Positive thinking and meditation

Positive thinking and meditation are the yogic keys to peace of mind. Meditation techniques calm the mind and enhance focus. Regular meditation promotes physical and spiritual, as well as mental, well-being. Before meditation, yoga practitioners clear the mind of negative thoughts and feelings using concentration and positive-thinking exercises.