Yoga Meditation and Self Realization
It may be taxing to talk about yoga in this century. This ancient art is based on age-old wisdom and philosophy, and yet globalization has diminished its real purpose and meaning. The ancient art of yoga has been represented as a simple concept to help people gain a better understanding of the overall philosophy. In fact, the western civilization might find the full contents of yoga to be a rather difficult subject to relate to. It is always a risky affair to talk about a complex subject by merely grasping the basics. Yoga is mainly perceived as a physical activity in the western part of the world. The once respected and revered philosophy has been reduced to a mere speech of attaining inner balance and peace.
It originates from the Hindu religion and it is actually a part of the Hindu philosophy. In India, yoga is considered a very spiritual experience that has a physical aspect to it. Most westerners would describe yoga as a physical practice. Yoga with its strange looking symbols may seem mystical to the average Joe, is often enough to perk up a considerable level of interest in the hidden aspects of this ancient practice, but sadly, they are often misunderstood. It became a popular sport in the west. Additionally, people who desire inner tranquility would often find this practice to be beneficial. It also does a good job attracting those who wish to obtain inner peace and balance in the midst of the hectic modern lifestyle.
Almost all who proclaim themselves as yoga masters perpetrate these claims and the masses are undoubtedly fascinated. There is plenty of evidence to show that yoga has been wrongly implemented in the West. A closer look revealed that these errors were caused by the cultural influence of each race. Apparently, the west is not prepared to spend too much time in meaningful contemplations of this philosophy, hence the resulting fatal error due to a lack of understanding. Most Americans do not possess the time to spend moments in meaningful sessions of quiet meditation, which is essential for success when embracing this practice. The Hindus have a different set of value system that is very different from the west, and places low importance in the mere accumulation of physical wealth. Unless these values are changed, it is impossible for westerners to achieve the true wisdom and enlightenment as defined by the parameters of the Hindu religion. Patience and time is crucial for meditation. The westerners do not consider spending time in meaningful meditations, contemplating about life and existence is an investment worthy to pursue.
Yoga becomes a stylish endeavor instead of a spiritual experience. There is a lot of information going out promoting yoga as a form of sports; in fact you can grab any of those and start practicing yoga anywhere you want to. Even the famous people who are fake yoga gurus have garnered a lot of support from their disciples. Obedient disciples of this distorted form of yoga have become agents of growth of this unhealthy philosophy.
