What is Yoga?

The term yoga comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuj’. It means to unite. Ultimately, yoga is the union between yourself and a higher consciousness. I believe this higher consciousness exists within. Following the path of Yoga enables you to experience this union.

Maharishi Patanjali, a great sage, outlined an 8-fold path to achieve Yoga. This entails:

Yamas are external codes of conducts that one must follow. For example, non-violence and truthfulness.
Niyamas are internal codes of conduct such as cleanliness and surrendering through faith.
Asana means pose and is typically what a formal yoga class entails.
Pranayama focuses on controlling our life force energy through breath.

These first 4 steps in the 8-fold path are called Bahiranga Yoga - the aspects of yoga that focus on the external world.

Pratyahara is the bridge between the external and internal steps and is the withdrawal of our senses.

The internal focus of Yoga is Antaranga Yoga.

First comes Dharana, which is the concentration of the mind on one object.
Dhyana is complete concentration with no interruption.
Lastly we reach, Samadhi, which can go by many meanings, from nirvana to enlightenment.

This process encompasses the path of Yoga.