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Question: Is yoga as beneficial physically as it is spiritually?

Comment: In this culture we tend to compartmentalize, differentiate, things without questioning if they are really separate. So, first of all we should ask ourselves the question, what is physical, psychological, emotional, intellectual, creative, intuitive, spiritual, etc. Do these words name distinct objects or phenomena? Are they intellectual trick we play on ourselves to make it easier to deal with Reality?

Physical yoga primarily exercises and purifies endocrine system; it also improves flexibility and circulation. It is usually prescribed to correct emotional and physical defects that interfere with meditation practice. It is also a kind of physical exercise of mild to moderate intensity depending on the style of hatha yoga.

Yoga was designed and practiced in India where people were (and still are) doing substantially more daily physical activity like farm work, manual laundry, etc. as compared with the more leisurely life-style in the West. Therefore, a Western person who wishes to develop muscle should do some other sport besides yoga. However, if you like just to be physically healthy, hatha yoga practice is sufficient.

Please note that physical yoga practice is most beneficial when you are living a yogic lifestyle, which includes a pure (vegetarian) diet as well as other restrictions. If you do not follow such rules, yoga may turn out to be harmful rather then helpful. Also note that any aspect of yoga taken out of context (and out of the yoga system) is potentially dangerous. Thus a competent teacher is a must.

For more information about the physical aspect of yoga practice, click here.

For instructions on how to start asana practice, click here.

— Anatole