What Is Sivananda Yoga?
Sivananda Yoga is a spiritual yoga system founded by Swami Vishnudevananda in 1959. It includes the use of asanas (yoga postures) but is not limited to them as in systems of yoga as exercise. He named this system, as well as the international Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres organization responsible for propagating its teachings, after his guru, Sivananda. The goal of Sivananda Yoga is to encourage the mind to settle down so that you can begin the more profound practices of meditation and self-study. Depending on the speed of how you practice, you can emphasize different aspects such as strength building, relaxation, or introspection.
Where did Sivananda Yoga begin?
Swami Sivananda established the first Sivananda Ashram in 1932. His mission was to serve humanity by sharing his deep understanding of yoga, and in 1936, he founded the Divine Life Society to publish and freely distribute spiritual material. In 1957, Swami Vishnudevananda on instructions from his guru Swami Sivananda, travelled to the West to bring the teachings of yoga to the people. He established the first Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre in Montreal, Canada in 1959 and there are now close to 60 Sivananda locations (Ashrams, City Centres and Affiliated Centres) around the world.
Key Principles and Yoga Practices
The five principles of Sivananda Yoga are:
- Proper exercise
- Proper breathing
- Proper relaxation
- Proper diet
- Positive thinking & meditation
The Sivananda Yoga system is based on Sivananda’s teachings to synthesize the principles of the four paths of yoga (Yoga of Synthesis) along with the five points of yoga compiled by Vishnudevananda. The four classical paths of yoga consist of Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga and Jnana Yoga. 200 Hours Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga Teacher Training Course. These are Proper Exercise (asana), Proper Breathing (pranayama), Proper Relaxation (savasana), Proper Diet and Positive Thinking (vedanta) and Meditation (dhyana).
What is the purpose of Sivananda?
The purpose of life is to realize the oneness of all creation and one’s identity with the Divinity. True life is life in God. The goal of life is God-realization. To become divine is the aim of life. The purpose of human birth is to achieve Divine Consciousness. You have come here to attain supreme and unalloyed Bliss. The purpose of your existence is to serve with divine bhava (attitude), to purify and steady the mind, to attain freedom and perfection, which is Self-realization.
Benefits Of Sivananda Yoga
Sivananda Yoga enhances the flexibility of the muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons. It also stimulates circulation. It strengthens the strength and flexibility of the spine which keeps the body youthful. It is specifically beneficial in preventing various respiratory problems and providing nourishment to all muscles. It also helps in reducing stress and anxiety.
Can beginners do Sivananda yoga?
Yes, beginners can do Sivananda yoga. The Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centres offer classes for all levels of practitioners, including beginners. The classes are designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their level of experience.
Is Sivananda for me?
Sivananda Yoga is for anyone who wants to improve their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It is a holistic approach to yoga that aims to improve overall health and well-being. It involves performing a set of 12 basic asanas (yoga poses) in a specific sequence, along with deep breathing and relaxation techniques. The goal of this practice is to bring the mind and body into a state of balance and harmony.
