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The Purpose of Yoga - Creating Happiness From Within

By Paul Jerard

The ancient Yogis created a science of breathing, which we know as Pranayama, but very often new Yoga students do not see the higher value in this practice. The new Hatha Yoga student may only see a value in the physical Yoga postures.

Therefore, it is up to Yoga teachers to guide their students toward happiness with the aid of Pranayama. The body and mind become linked, in awareness, through the steady practice of Pranayama.

Awareness brings about a realization of the true value of life, but Pranayama is the driving force, which opens the gateway to happiness, euphoria, and tranquility.

Happiness transcends far beyond power, money, material, and lust, but many people confuse it for a one dimensional possession. Money and power can help or destroy us. The choice is up to us, because in reality, we are only the temporary custodians of money and power.

Why is happiness so hard for some us to grasp? Happiness is not something in a remote location, at the beach, or in beautiful mountains. Visiting any or all of these exotic places may make you happy, but happiness is a lot closer than most people realize.

In fact, happiness exists within all of us. You can easily make a case that happiness is a choice. Some people make statements, such as: “My life is boring; all I do is work,” “My life isn’t fair,” and “When I make a million dollars, I’ll be happy.” Sorry to say, the problem of “unhappiness,” in the previously mentioned statements, lies within the individual. In each case, happiness was a matter of choice.

If we have a job, we are doing better than someone who is unemployed. Life is not fair, but it is not all bad. Even in the worst of times, people of exceptional character rise up with courage and vision. The person, who sees a “bench mark” of material wealth, as a gateway to happiness, has “missed the boat.”

While he or she was chasing a million dollar dream, his or her family ties were lost. Children do not raise themselves. Wives, husbands, and good friends do not stay “on hold,” until you are ready for them.

One dimensional people will usually find their “Golden pot at the end of the rainbow,” but they will also lose many more valuable parts of life along the way. Never allow a hectic and busy lifestyle to raise your children and nurture valuable relationships.

The fifth Yama, Aparigraha, or non-attachment is the key. Happiness is found in the heart, soul, and mind. Over consumption of worldly possessions will only create a society of “spoiled children,” who demand more possessions, but never find true happiness.
© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995.

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posted by Cheryl Levesque @ 8:56 AM