If you spend much time studying yoga, you have likely heard of a guru and wondered what exactly that means and if you need one. In yoga, a guru is a time honored tradition, dating back thousands of years. A guru is more than just an expert in yoga or a yoga teacher.
A guru is often described as an individual who has reached self illumination and offers guidance in spiritual matters as well. There is greater emphasis on studying with a guru in some forms of yoga. For example, in Kundalini yoga, the guru is said to have the ability of waking the Kundalini.
Often, experienced yoga teachers are referred to as a guru, but this is not always the case. In spiritual forms of yoga, the guru acts as a spiritual advisor to help the person advance in spiritual and physical aspects of their practice. In general, there is greater emphasis on studying with a guru when the person is pursuing the spiritual enlightenment in addition to the physical practice of yoga.
The relationship with a student and guru is like that of an apprentice and a mentor. This is often seen in trades, such as cabinet making or electricians. The apprentice learns from the master craftsman and gains in knowledge. The same basic framework can describe advancing in the practice of yoga under the guidance of an expert, or guru.
A guru is also an expert instructor in the practice of yoga. The teacher offers individual instruction to assist the student in performing the asanas, breathing techniques, meditation and all other aspects of yoga. For many people, it is better to learn the mental and physical focus with live instruction and support, particularly as they become more advanced practitioners.
There is disagreement regarding the need for a guru. Some people believe that no spiritual progress is possible in the practice of yoga without guidance, which means a guru. Others believe that a guru is not necessary for advancing in even the spiritual practice of yoga.