A knowledge of the roots
Sahaja Yoga is a method of meditation which brings a breakthrough in the evolution of human awareness. It was created by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi in 1970 and has since spread all around the world. In Shri Mataji's own words: "Global unity of mankind can be achieved through this awakening that can occur within each human being, so that transformation takes place within us. By this process a person becomes moral, united, integrated and balanced. One actually gets the experience of the feeling of the all-pervading divine power as cool breeze. "Know thyself" is the main theme of all the scriptures - it becomes evident and one reaches the absolute understanding of oneself. Thus one becomes peaceful and joyous in life. One becomes collective as a drop falling into the ocean of compassion. This method works for the multitudes and not individually. Of course one cannot pay for the experience of Divine Love. Moreover, it is the last breakthrough of our evolution. This is the actualization of such transformation, which is taking place now, worldwide, and has been proved and experienced by hundreds of thousands in over 85 countries."
The next step in our collective evolution
This inner awakening is called by many names: Self Realization, Second Birth, Enlightenment, Liberation, Moksha, Satori and it is the goal of all religions and spiritual traditions of the world. This knowledge is ancient, but for a long time it was available only to a few souls, being kept secret and transmitted from guru to disciple, since Self Realization was extremely difficult to achieve. In these modern times, through Sahaja ("spontaneous") Yoga ("union with one's Self"), this experience has become effortless and available to everyone, for the first time in the history of human spirituality. The advent of Sahaja Yoga was prophesized a long time ago in many of the world's spiritual traditions and religions. At the same time, in these modern times many seekers of Truth have been deluded into following various false, self-proclaimed "gurus" who are either money or power oriented, but not Spirit oriented. Through the practice of Sahaja Yoga, our awareness gains a new dimension where absolute truth can be felt tangibly - on our central nervous system. As a result of this happening, our spiritual ascent takes place effortlessly and physical, mental and emotional balance are achieved as a byproduct of this growth of our awareness. We then realize that we are not this body, mind, ego, conditionings, emotions or intellect, but something of an eternal nature which is always residing in our heart in a pure, undisturbed state - the Self or Spirit. The Spirit is the source of true knowledge, peace and joy. Self Realization is the actualization of this connection with our Spirit, which as Shri Mataji advocates, is the birthright of every human being.
The health benefits :Regular practice of Yog aasans and Pranayam has in many cases provided relief in various ailments. Research and innumerable case studies shows that Yog and Pranayam helps control Acidity, Allergy, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Backache, Blood Pressure, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Cervical Sodalities, Constipation, Depression, Diabetes, Epilepsy, Fatigue, Gastric Disorders, Headaches, Heart Diseases, Obesity, Migraine, Sciatica Pain, Sinus, Weakness etc. Analysis of medical parameters pre and post Yog Workshop participation have, for example, shown loss of between 8 to 16 lbs. of an attendee’s weight in case of obese participants and a weight gain of 4 to 8 lbs. by those clinically diagonised as underweight. Asthmatic, Diabetic and High Blood Pressure patients have found significant relief in their symptoms. Patients with Migraine, Depression, Sinus, Allergy, Arthritis, Cervical Spondylitis, Sciatica Pain, Acidity, Constipation, Gastric Disorder, Backache, Weakness and many other disorders. Studies have revealed that regular practice of Yog and Pranayam can lead to freedom from dependence on inhalers by Asthma patients, freedom from insulin injections for Diabetics, freedom from regular medication by High Blood Pressure patients and freedom from blockages in blood vessels.
The mental benefits :Helps you relax and handle stressful situations easily. Teaches you to quieten the mind so you can focus your energy where you want it to go – on a difficult yog aasan, on the tennis court or golf course or in the office. Encourages positive thoughts, self acceptance And self confidence.
The spiritual benefits :Builds awareness of the body, feelings, the world around and the needs of others and empathy with nature. Promotes interdependence between mind, body and spirit. Helps you live the concept of “oneness”.
Other benefits of Yog and Pranayam :The most important benefit of Yog and Pranayam is physical and mental cleansing. The aging process, which is largely an artificial condition, caused mainly by auto-intoxication or self-poisoning , can be slowed down by practicing Yog. By keeping the body clean, flexible and well lubricated, one can significantly reduce the catabolic process of cell deterioration. To get the maximum benefits of Yog one has to combine the practices of Yog aasans, Pranayam and meditation.
Why are Yog and Pranayam successful?
Yog acts both as a curative and preventive therapy.
The very essence of Yog and Pranayam lies in attaining mental peace, improved concentration powers, a relaxed state of living and harmony in relationships. Through the practice of Yog and Pranayam, we become aware of the interconnectedness between our emotional, mental and physical levels. Gradually this awareness leads to an understanding of the more subtle areas of existence.
