Ancient Yoga Practices: How to practice like a Yogi

The journey of yoga is far more profound than the physical postures we often associate with it in the modern world. Rooted in ancient Vedic texts and yogic philosophies, yoga is a path toward greater unity, awareness, and love. As one ascends in their practice, their vibration elevates, bringing them closer to the ultimate awareness of oneness and higher states of love—the highest form of vibration. Unlike emotions such as anger and hate, which are considered low vibrational states, love represents the pinnacle of our energetic potential.

From the perspective of yoga, evolution is not about reaching an end goal or a state of Enlightenment as an endpoint; it's about living Enlightenment. This concept emphasizes an ever-unfolding journey of awareness, moving from wholeness to wholeness and from love to love. Our universe, infinite yet expanding, mirrors this continual evolution and expansion. In the practice of yoga, the aim is not to chase after perfection but to embrace and enhance our awareness in the present moment.

In this blog, spiritual master, Anand Mehrotra deeply explains about ancient yoga practices, further exploring how to embody the principles of yoga beyond the mat. By understanding the deeper aspects of yoga, we can align ourselves with the innate call to share love and joy, just as the great masters like Buddha and Jesus did. This journey is about experiencing and sharing love, moving toward a state of living Enlightenment, and evolving continuously in unity and awareness.

Understanding the Foundations of Yoga

1. The Meaning of Yoga

The word "yoga" comes from the Sanskrit root "yuj," which means "to yoke" or "to unite." This unity refers to the integration of body, mind, and spirit, leading to a state of harmony and balance. Ancient texts and ancient yoga practices emphasize that yoga is not merely a physical practice but a comprehensive system for achieving spiritual growth and self-realization.

2. The Vibrational States

According to yogic philosophy, everything in the universe is composed of energy, which vibrates at different frequencies. Emotions like love and joy have high vibrations, while anger and hate resonate at lower frequencies. As practitioners advance in their yoga journey, their vibration increases, bringing them closer to the awareness of oneness and the highest state of love.

The Evolutionary Path of a Yogi

1. From Isolation to Unity

The journey of a yogi is one of moving from isolation to unity. In the chakra system, this is depicted as ascending from the root chakra, associated with fear and ego, to the Ajna chakra, representing unity and enlightenment. This progression is not about chasing an end goal but about experiencing a continuous unfolding of awareness and love.

2. Living Enlightenment

Rather than viewing Enlightenment as a distant, unattainable state, ancient yoga practices advocate for "living Enlightenment." This concept involves embracing and embodying higher awareness in everyday life, moving from wholeness to wholeness and from love to love. It is about recognizing the beauty and divinity in the present moment and sharing it with others.

Ancient Yoga Practices

1. Meditation

Meditation is a core practice in yoga, aimed at calming the mind and connecting with the inner self. Techniques such as mindfulness, focused attention, and transcendental meditation help elevate one's vibrational state and foster a deep sense of inner peace and unity.

2. Pranayama (Breath Control)

Pranayama involves the regulation of breath to control the life force (prana) within the body. Ancient yoga practices like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing), Kapalabhati (skull-shining breath), and Bhramari (bee breath) help balance the energy centers (chakras), enhance mental clarity, and elevate one's vibrational frequency.

3. Asana (Physical Postures)

While often seen as the entirety of yoga in the West, asanas are just one aspect of the broader yogic path. Postures like Tadasana (mountain pose), Virabhadrasana (warrior pose), and Sirsasana (headstand) not only strengthen and align the body but also prepare the practitioner for deeper states of meditation and higher awareness.

4. Mantra and Chanting

Chanting mantras, such as "Om," "So Hum," or "Gayatri Mantra," is a powerful practice that helps focus the mind and elevate consciousness. The vibrational quality of these sounds resonates with the higher frequencies of the universe, promoting a sense of unity and spiritual connection.

5. Yamas and Niyamas (Ethical Guidelines)

The Yamas and Niyamas are ethical principles that form the foundation of ancient yoga practices. Yamas (restraints) include non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence, and non-covetousness. Niyamas (observances) include cleanliness, contentment, austerity, self-study, and surrender to a higher power. Adhering to these principles helps purify the mind and body, facilitating higher states of awareness.

Embodying the Yogi Lifestyle

1. Cultivating Love and Compassion

A key aspect of practicing like a yogi is cultivating love and compassion for oneself and others. This involves recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings and acting with kindness and empathy in daily interactions.

2. Sharing Knowledge and Joy

As yogis advance in their ancient yoga practices, they naturally feel compelled to share their knowledge and joy with others. Teaching, mentoring, and engaging in community service are ways to extend the benefits of yoga beyond the self, creating a ripple effect of positive energy and higher vibrations.

3. Continuous Self-Discovery

The journey of a yogi is one of continuous self-discovery and growth. Embracing new experiences, maintaining a beginner's mind, and remaining open to learning are essential for ongoing evolution and living Enlightenment.

Conclusion

Practicing like a true yogi transcends the physical postures and delves into the profound integration of body, mind, and spirit. Ancient yoga practices such as meditation, pranayama, asana, mantra chanting, and adherence to ethical guidelines create a holistic yogic path toward higher awareness and unity. These ancient yoga practices help elevate our vibrational state, moving us from emotions like fear and isolation to the highest frequency of love and oneness. By embracing these timeless teachings, we not only enhance our personal growth but also contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate world.

Ultimately, the journey of yoga is not about reaching a final destination or achieving a perfect state of Enlightenment. It is about living Enlightenment—experiencing continuous growth, awareness, and love in every moment. This path encourages us to share our joy and knowledge with others, fostering a community of interconnectedness and support. As we embody the principles of love, unity, and self-discovery, we align ourselves with the true essence of yoga, evolving from wholeness to wholeness and from love to love. Through this ever-unfolding journey, we find the beauty and divinity in the present, enriching our lives and the lives of those around us.

About Anand Mehrotra

Anand Mehrotra, an exceptional spiritual Master in yogic wisdom, is renowned for his deep-rooted connection to the Himalayan yogic lineage. Originating from Rishikesh, the heart of yoga, Anand has dedicated his life to imparting the pure essence of ancient yoga practices to the world. His teachings, rooted in the Himalayan yogic tradition, blend Vedic wisdom with Tantric principles, offering a transformative path for seekers.

Anand's journey as a spiritual master began early, nurtured under the guidance of his guru amidst the serene Himalayan landscapes. His teachings encapsulate centuries-old wisdom, making him a revered Rishi and Master Teacher, spreading the light of ancient knowledge globally. Anand's presence exudes bliss and potential, inviting individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation through his courses and insights.