Extracts on Yoga…

A System for Self Development

The supra-physical phenomena occurring in the practice of Yoga and the practitioner’s experience on subtler planes are viewed with suspicion and regarded as mere oriental magic. Yoga is neither fanciful nor does it contain anything abnormal. Its aim is the integral development of all faculties in man. It is the time-tested, rational way to a fuller and more blessed life that will naturally be followed by one and all in the world of tomorrow. The eminently practical nature of Yoga renders it the rational bridge between the idealism of pure philosophy and the hard realism of earthly life. It is concerned with transcendental life, yet it asks you to take nothing for granted. You are to follow definite methods, arrive at tangible results and experience them in your own life.

Groundwork of Yoga Practice

All methods of Yoga have ethical training and moral perfection as their basis. The eradication of vices and the development of virtues form the first step in the ladder of Yoga. The disciplining of your nature and the formation of a steady and pure character through a set of right habits and regular daily observances is the next step. Upon a firm foundation of a well established and virtuous moral character is built the further structure of Yoga.

Upon the basis of moral purity, awaken yourself to the conscious realization of your oneness with the supreme Self. Think of the Self continuously. As Tennyson said; “Let thy voice rise like a fountain for me night and day.” This is the real spiritual practice or Brahma-abhyasa. It will lead you to Self-Realization.

Integral Development

Logical incisiveness, clever hair-splitting arguments, intellectual gymnastics and word-jugglery will not help you in attaining Self-Realization. You must harmoniously develop your head, heart and hand through the practice of the Yoga of Synthesis. Only then will you attain perfection and integral development.

The four Yogas are interdependent and inseparable. Service purifies and expands the heart. Love unifies. Without service and love you cannot dream of attaining advaita, realization of Oneness. Love is involved in service; service is love in expression. Knowledge is diffused love and love is concentrated knowledge.

Swami Omkarananda