The limited noesis of Yog is either the result of spiritual famishes in the modern world or dearth of good advertising!..writes Nidhi Kalra.

For many, the word Yog is synonymous with postures or asans. Whilst people’s perception of this science is confined to its physical aspect it comes as no surprise that yog has gained popularity as a form of workout or some sort of aerobic exercise. Yog is neither of these.

The word Yog, commonly pronounced as yoga has its origin in the Sanskrit word yuj which means to unite. In words of Swami Chidanand, ‘Yoga is the state of union with the Divine or the experience of oneness with the great Reality.’ It is an experience, a methodology that helps an individual attain a sense of oneness with the universe.

To understand the science of Yog is a sadhana in itself. Everyone can walk this path because it appears for those who choose to tread on it.

Even while one is trying to achieve that sense of oneness, one has to equip the self with proper knowledge. As one starts to explore, one concludes that the entire system is based on the philosophy of union.

It can be viewed in Patanjali’s yog sutras, also known as Ashtang Yog or an 8-limbed Yog system. The limbs are yam, niyam, asan, pranayam, pratyahara, dharna, dhyan and samadhi. In order to experience in its entirety, each of the 8 limbs needs to be skilfully practiced and imbibed into one’s life.

Similarly, the four paths of attaining Yog namely, Jgnana Yog, Bhakti Yog, Karma Yog and Raja Yog need to be blended together for the complete experience of Yog.

From Patanjali’s Yog sutras to the four paths of attaining Yog, every system propagates the importance of being in unison. Yog is a science that deals with body, breath, mind, soul, and ultimately, the universe itself.

It is beyond the boundaries of religion, It is not a work-out regime. Yog teaches one to live in the world yet be above it.