Many studios and wellness centers offering yoga classes also offer meditation classes. This is not a coincidence. The reason is simple; there is a strong connection between yoga and meditation. In fact, meditation is one of five principles of yoga. The early yogis thousands of years ago used yoga sutras to enhance the practice of meditation. Today, people continue to reap the benefits of both practices.
The connection between yoga and meditation is easy to see. The Sanskrit word yoga means union. This describes the mind/body/spirit connection achieved through yoga practice. Meditation offers similar benefits in connecting the mind, body and spirit and developing a heightened awareness of this connection and the connection of each individual with the source of life. It connects the physical body with the spiritual world.
For the ancient yogis and those practicing yoga as part of the Hindu religion, these practices are part of their religious tradition. For some Christians, meditation is also used as a form of prayer, or listening to God, who is their source of life. Yet another group uses meditation for spiritual enlightenment or self awareness, but not as a religious practice.
Regardless of the reasons for which it is practiced, meditation in combination with yoga offers many benefits. Both practices work to reduce stress levels, increase spiritual awareness, increase the awareness of the flow of energy through the body and help achieve a state of relaxation.
When beginning the practice of yoga, meditation, or both, discipline is required. The biggest challenge for many people is finding time in a hectic schedule to practice regularly. But, regular practice is essential for reaping the many benefits yoga and meditation have to offer. Once you begin to practice and feel the many physical, emotional and spiritual benefits, which will give you the motivation to continue.