What is Yoga?

Before starting my practice, I saw Yoga simply as a form of physical activity that challenges the body and stretches you out. I never really thought of all the benefits, the origins and the different types of practices both eastern and western.
In the first paper that I wrote for this class about The meaning of Yoga, I said "Each yogi is after one goal: the ability to connect to a greater power, physically challenge their bodies and achieve total enlightenment." Although I still feel that is a general idea behind yoga but there is so much more that comes with following a practice.

 Now, after practicing for two months, I have started to realize what yoga is for me.

It is a time to get away, to put my life and problems aside and focus only on myself.

It is a time to improve my physical health and work up a sweat to stay fit. 

It is a time to practice controlling my breath and understanding the needs of my body.

It is a time to push my limits and strengthen my body.

It is a time to set goals for myself and focus on achieving them. 

It is a time to clear out the toxins in my body and feel lighter and happier.

It is a time to relieve stress and connect my body to mother earth. 

It is a time to be apart of a community.

It is a time to thank my body and enhance my overall wellbeing.

Yoga is becoming a part of my life, when I leave the studio I feel relieved and like a new person.    I bring that positive energy and happiness to my day to day activities. I love being a part of this new community and can see myself continuing to practice Yoga regularly. I have become much more interested in the origins of yoga as well as the natural medicinal benefits and want to continue my research. I would also try to venture into the field of Ayurveda one day to enhance my diet…. I still have a lot to learn about what yoga is, but maybe in five years down the road I will revisit this question and see what I have to say…