"Yoga is a holistic approach for attaining self-realization and, to bring peace & harmony in the world. Yoga methods ensure physical fitness, mental concentration (control) and lasting spiritual bliss (sama'dhi). By applying the power of rationality & universal love through a positive yogic life style, Yoga prepares each aspirant to rise above obstacles and attain freedom from bondages of karma".

When Shiva first laid the foundations of Yoga, it was the time of Hill Valley Civilization-simple, clean, spiritually motivated. So that is the reason that Tantric definition of yoga is at variance with future elaborations. When Maharsi Kapil, Sri Sri Krs'na, Maharsi Patainjali & others provided their commentaries and codifications, it was the period of Plain Valley Civilizations with its special emphasis on philosophical inquiry and understanding of mind. It culminated in the development of Hatha Yoga under Natha Yogiis in the 9th century. Today, we are faced with delta and air-borne civilizations. Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiiji (1922-1990) has provided a fresh impetus to yogic thought through a neohumanist perspective. His magnum opus titled "Ananda Sutram" and numerous discourses speak of his erudition and social stance. So, the eternal spirit of yoga has always being interpreted in light of the spirit of the times. Yet, it reaffirms what has been said thousands of years before. That is one of the beauties of Yoga.

"yoga is a lifestyle.." "yoga is a system of balancing.." "yoga is an integral outlook" "yoga is a means to find true meaning in life" "yoga is a path of self-realization" "yoga is a practical approach to inner and outer peace" "yoga is a system of physical fitness, mental expansion and spiritual fulfillment" can we think of yoga as a subtle way to fight injustices? ..suggestions,comments?

Some may be inclined to think that since a lot of information is currently available in books or on the web, yoga teachers are not necessary. One should remember that there is no substitute for the personal assimilation of yoga. It takes years before simple truths of yoga are fully grasped-beyond mere intellectual understanding. Yoga is not a ritual motion without investing one's life force into it. It takes years of practice of ahimsa to truly understand ahimsa, for example. Similarly, only the personal practice gives insights. Mere reading books without proper assimilation can create false ego and even become a burden. The idea of service , for example, is infused with tremendous power. Yoga must be lived and it is here that Guru, aca'rya's and yoga instructors serve as guides, inspirations and light houses. May we approach the temple of body with reverance. May we approach the dojo of Yogo with full appreciation of its sacredness. May we not forget the importance of Sadguru while treading the narrow path of Yoga.