Psychology of Yoga

Just like psychology or the methods of psychology, yoga also makes use of the mind in a variety of ways.  This is because Yoga needs to employ the practice of two important processes: 1. concentration or dharana and, 2. meditation or dhyana.

Dharana, as defined by Patanjali, refers to the "binding of consciousness to a single point." In order to attain Dhyana is attained by focusing the awareness on a single sensation such as breathing.  This act will lead to meditation or dhyana. This state enables the inner senses to develop and unite with the larger truth.  Meditators sometimes experiences stillness, bliss, and harmony. 

Benefits of Yoga

A heightened sense of awareness enables practicers to experience positive effects. Daily and continuous practice of yoga often leads to beneficial results.  The benefits derived from yoga are numerous and varied.  Common among the yoga benefits are enhanced physical well-being, emotional and mental health and state of bliss.  Those who are experts in practicing yoga often attain samadhi or an advanced state of meditation where the practitioner becomes conscious of inner bliss. 

Among the Western nations, where individualism is strongly adhered to, propagation of yoga practices came about due to the need to find oneself or find meaning and purpose for one's existence and to unite the different facets of self.

It is important to note that Yoga's main emphasis is the promotion of general well-being. Although it is not exactly discussed here but yoga even showed some promise in treating a variety of conditions.  Due to its holistic approach in attaining well-being, yoga teaches people to acquire a new lifestyle, a better way of thinking, and a healthier way of life.