Dimensions of Yoga

Article by Sunder Iyer, VKY Practitioner

I have been a student and occasional teacher at VKY for several years now, though I have attended classes at other yoga schools previously. Yoga practice at VKY stands out for its multi-dimensional approach to yoga, one that reflects the true depth of this ancient yet ageless practice from India.

Dimension 1: Physical

  • Through sadhana (practice) and bhavana (visualisation), it is possible to do any asana. Personally, it provides me with a sense of achievement to be able to do that which was not possible before. This imperative of constant self-improvement is a hallmark of yoga at VKY.
  • Be it the regular weekly classes, Surya Yagnas, retreats or the “Yoga for Serious Yogis,” every experience is a showcase of the sheer variety of yoga.
  • There is always something more to learn and try, and to learn by doing (anusasunam). This positively benefits all aspects of life.

Dimension 2: Mental

  • Every class features many pranayama, dhyana and kriya (cleansing) sequences. These are appropriate for each season. For example, in winter we do agni sari Kriya to overcome winter lethargy and energise. In summer, sheetkari pranayama to stay cool and unflustered by the heat.
  • Meditation (pratyahara followed by dhyana) quiets the mental chatter to allow clarity of thought.
  • The above builds resiliency and the capacity to cope with changing circumstances and demands.

 Dimension 3: Spiritual

  • VKY emphasises the scriptural dimension of yoga. It does not downplay the Vedic origins of yoga. Rather, it explores its essence and applies it to our contemporary times.
  • I have enjoyed this as it is bringing me closer to the life and health-affirming culture of my ancestors.
  • The deep meanings of verses from the Bhagvad Gita and Patanjali Yoga sutras are the products of great minds of the past whose insights are timeless. For example, the 26 divine qualities that link the jeevatma (individual soul) to the Paramatma (Supreme).

Dimension 4: Practical

  • Diet – VKY classes have helped me adopt positive habits such as avoiding caffeine, drinking warm water always, and avoiding carbonated drinks.
  • Sleep – regular practice of Yoga Nidira has improved my ability to rest, sleep quality and cycles.
  • Sustainability – As a family, we have ceased using environmentally plastic bottles which seep plastic nanoparticles into the body. I drink from copper bottles instead. Also, we have replaced plastic straws with stainless steel ones, and we use jute bags for our shopping.
  • Yoga is a highly practical way to manage one’s time, energy and relationships. It is a darasana or positive way of living in the world, without the negative aspects of the world living in you.

Dimension 5: Non-commercial

  • VKY classes are made accessible to all at a price that is one-third to half of commercial yoga classes.
  • The purpose of VKY is to live in bliss for 100 years and it’s mission is to help all, regardless of age, gender or background, to shift from illness to wellness.
  • This is the need of our age.