Yoga - Meaning, Concept, Definition, Aim & Objective - TNTEU B.Ed - 4th Semester

 

ª MEANING OF YOGA:

Yoga is the method of self-integration. It is the union of mind and body with spirit.

The word ‘yoga’ comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj”, which means “to yoke” or to “unite”. Thus, the word yoga literally means “union”.

This union can be on different levels

• Philosophically – Limited individual self to infinite self i.e upgrading man into Superman; religiously as that of the individual soul with the infinite spirit called God.

• Physiologically – As the integration of the personality, a state  wherein a person no longer lives at cross purposes with himself. 

• Emotionally – As stilling of waves of likes and dislikes,    permitting one to remain in all circumstances complete in himself.

ª CONCEPT OF YOGA:

It is a process of mastering over the mind.

By controlling the mind, we reach our original state.

Control involves two aspects,

·   power to concentrate on any desired subject or object, and

·   to remain calm and quiet all the time.

Yoga gives more emphasis on the second aspect.

A special skill, which makes the mind reach its subtler state of consciousness, stay and act.

ª DEFINITIONS OF YOGA:

Yoga is the neutralization of the vortices of feeling – Patanjali.

Yoga is the suppression or modification of the mind – Patanjali.

Yoga is a balanced state of mind and body. Yoga is a balanced state of emotions. Yoga is a balanced state of thoughts and intellect. Yoga is a balanced state of behaviour – Lord Krishna in Bhagavat Gita.

Yoga is the process of integrating one’s thoughts, feelings and deeds. In other words, integration of head, heart and hand. - Swami Sivananda, Rishikesh.

ª AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF YOGA:

The main aim of yoga is 

• to help gaining control over the mind, 
• making the body fit and flexible, 
• dexterity in action, 
• developing resistance power to fight against diseases, 
• developing concentration and agile mind, 
• immersed in calmness, 
• sharpening one’s focus and concentration and 
• improving memory power.

Yoga helps in self-discipline, self -control, leading to immense amount of awareness, concentration and higher level of consciousness.

ª AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF YOGA IN EDUCATION:

•    To enable the student to have good physical health.
•    To practice mental hygiene.
•    To possess emotional stability.
•    To integrate moral values and behavior.
•    To attend higher level of consciousness.
•         To develop the capacity to face the challenges of life.
•    To enable the student to improve posture, increase the intake of oxygen and enhance the functioning of the systems like respiratory, digestive, endocrine, reproductive and excretory.