To clarify the science of Yoga and make it easy for the majority of people, these universal principles are desired for the physical and the mental health of individuals as well as spiritual growth. These 5 points are necessary (although you may not choose to follow the vegetarian diet, but should aspire to it.) For optimal performance as a follower of yoga, these 5 principles constitute the essence of the teachings of Yoga Spirit Center.

1. Proper Exercise (Asanas) Our physical body is meant to move and exercise. We need the natural motion of muscles and joints or disease and discomfort could result. Proper exercise should be invigorating to the practitioner while enhancing to the body, mind and spiritual life.

2. Proper Breathing (Pranayama) Yoga teaches us how to use the lungs at their maximum capacity. Controlling the breath by using a 5:2:4:2 ratio. An exhale of 5 counts, holding for 2; an inhale of 4 counts, holding for 2. Proper breathing should be deep, slow and rhythmical through the nostrils and belly. The belly rises on the inhalation and is drawn in on the exhalation. This increases vitality and mental clarity.

3. Proper Relaxation (Savasana) Yogis have used very powerful techniques of deep relaxation. It is important every day to spend time relaxing without any distractions. No TV, no radio! Find a relaxing spot in your home or outside with nature to "JUST BE!" By relaxing deeply, all the muscles the Yogi can thoroughly

4. Proper Diet (Vegetarian) Besides being responsible for building our physical body, the foods we eat profoundly affect our mind. For maximum body-mind efficiency and complete spiritual awareness, Yoga advocates a lacto-vegetarian diet. This is an integral part of the Yogic lifestyle. You will also want to seek out organic foods for their purity.

5. Meditation (Dhyana) The most important point of all is that we become what we think. Therefore, we should maintain positive and creative thoughts; these will contribute to vibrant health and a peaceful, joyful mind. Spend 5-15 minutes per day sitting in lotus, crossed-legged pose or seated in a chair. Let the thoughts come and let the thoughts go. It would be helpful also to repeat a mantra to calm the mind. "Om" is the perfect universal sound to repeat in your head. Concentration and relaxation will increase and thoughts will slow as you feel stress free!
About the Author

Carrie holds a Bachelor's Degree in Yoga Studies & Body-Centered Therapies. Her education began with ART, continued with Psychology, including Gestalt Therapy. Carrie has been instructing body sculpting for 2 decades. She is an initiate of Raja & Isha Yoga (Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev). She considers herself a "creatuitive" who pulls individuals inner intuitive resources to balance and nurture each soul & body. http://www.YogaSpiritCenter.com