Why We Practice

The following information is adapted from the Feb.2007 issue of the LA Yoga Magazine article written by Chase Bossart, KHYF certified teacher trainer and student of Mr. TKV Diskachar.


The modern-day Yoga master Mr. T.K.V. Desikachar was once asked “How do you know your Yoga is working?” to which he answered “your relationships are better.” His point is simple but important: the main reason for practicing Yoga is to improve our lives. We may develop a more flexible body, longer breath or more powerful concentration, but these are peripheral benefits along the way to becoming happier, suffering less and enjoying better, more satisfying relationships.
By specifically coordinating movements with the inhalation and exhalation, we are working with our breath and as we do so it gradually becomes longer. As our breath becomes longer, the rest of us changes as well: the mind and emotions become calmer, the body more relaxed and thus, the quality of our link with the world improves. As that happens, we have clearer perception, make better decisions and enjoy better consequences.
So, the next time you practice, don’t worry about whether or not you can do all the postures, let alone how perfectly! If at the end of the session your breathing is longer and smoother, you feel stable and calm, and your reactions to situations during the day are appropriate, your yoga is working.

"15 million Americans include some form of Yoga in their fitness regimen - twice as many as did 5 years ago." Time Magazine