Yoga and meditation are a great way to bring physical health and mental peace and calm. But often, for a beginner, or someone who wants to get started with yoga, things can be quite confusing with all the different kinds of yoga available. But there’s no reason to back off when you see someone in a scary asana! There is much more to yoga than just hatha yoga. There are some very simple techniques that even novices can pick up, establish themselves in, and move on to more involved and powerful processes.
Let’s take a look at a few great ways to get started with yoga and meditation.
#1 Mantras
A mantra is a powerful sound or sacred syllable. A mantra is based on the science that every sound has an associated form, and by uttering that particular sound, we can also influence the form it is associated with. Thus, by uttering the right mantras, we can creative a positive influence on our body and mind, and help create a chemistry of pleasantness and joy.
However, not all mantras can be uttered, unless adequate precaution and training are imparted. Since mantras can be very powerful techniques, it is important that we find the right mantra to begin with. The Isha Blog explains the benefits of a mantra, and lists five mantras that anyone can take up. They also offer the mantras as free mp3s and an Android App.
#2 Surya Namaskar and Asanas
Surya Namaskar, also known as Sun Salutation, is one of the most foundational and fundamental practices in Hatha Yoga. It is a great way to craft one’s body into a powerful possibility, and prepares for higher states of energy and more powerful practices. Surya Namaskar, when combined with asanas, can be a wonderful antidote for all kinds of ailments, besides bringing relaxation to body, mind and being.
#3 Meditation
Meditation need not necessarily be hard, though a lot of people seem to think it is – including the Dalai Lama! For a beginner, a guided meditation would be the way to go. There are a large number of guided meditations available on the web, which can help you get started on the path to conscious living, and help you stay on track.