In today's competitive and challenging environment, mental and physical issues such as anxiety, memory loss, fatigue, and chronic ailments are common among working professionals. These issues, if left unattended, lead to acute lifestyle crises. A little introspection and discipline with Yoga can lead you to happy, healthy life and balanced state of mind.
Yoga is a therapeutic discipline that focuses on keeping the mind and body in harmony. It focuses on a very subtle science. It is a combination of the art and science of leading a balanced lifestyle. The word 'Yoga' comes from the Sanskrit root 'Yuj,' which means 'to join, yoke, or unite.'
You don't have to live in an ashram or become a socially isolated hermit living on top of a mountain to pursue a yogic lifestyle. Your lifestyle decisions will represent and align with the ashrama or yoga level you are currently pursuing. Depending on your current life circumstances, you can ease into a yogic lifestyle as gradually as you need to.
Philosophies, values, morals, and ethics of Yoga require us to actively shape our behaviors, habits, and general ways of life to be more in line with them. While each of us will have our unique approach to living a yogic lifestyle, these milestones will earn contentment in your life.
First milestone: Yogis should make lifestyle choices that lead them to a state of sattva, or inner peace and serenity.
Second milestone: Prioritizing the development and maintenance of a balanced body, a focused mind, and a calm heart should be a top priority.
Third milestone: A yogic way of life should encourage the study of Yoga, reality, and spiritual awareness.
Following are the five simple steps to achieve the Yogic Lifestyle:
1. Eat Wisely
The yogic diet is primarily nutritious and balanced. What matters most is that you consume more sattvic and nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. In an ideal world, you'd eat healthy, minimally processed, in-season, and locally grown food. Yogis would also want to adjust their diet according to their Ayurvedic dosha. Eating like a Yogi will make you healthy, fit and boost your energy level.
2. Sleep Well
A yogi's mind must be concentrated and precise, his or her body must be rested and energized, his or her immune system must be robust, and his or her heart must be content. A yogi should arrange their sleep to wake up at sunrise, which is the best time to practice Yoga or meditation.
3. Workout Religiously
Asanas improve flexibility and power. Yoga helps to stretch the muscles. Straighten your back. Many yoga poses will help to strengthen your stomach and back muscles. Reduce anxiety and stress levels. Breathing exercises are part of Yoga, and they help you to pay attention to your body. Reduce the severity of low back pain. It supports maintaining the correct posture and keeps you fit and healthy.
4. Think Positive
While an asana practice can help you improve and sharpen your mental concentration, a daily meditation practice can help you master your mind by gaining a deeper understanding of your emotions and better controlling them. Concentration training not only calms and clears the mind but can also help you be more creative, productive, and happy. It teaches the virtue of positivity in challenging situations.
5. Love Unconditionally
Simplicity and truthfulness are fostered by living and speaking truth to others. We have the potential to be kind, compassionate, and grateful to others as we strive to reduce greed and unhealthy cravings. Yogis develop the strength and wisdom to let go of toxic and harmful relationships that cause them needless heartache and mental anguish.
Depending on your current life circumstances, you can ease into a yogic lifestyle as slowly as you need to. Fully committing to a yogic lifestyle can ultimately lead you to move healthy, eat wisely, change pursuits, and develop a progressive lifestyle.