In short, the definition of the word "yoga" is "yoke" or "to unite - bring together". We practice yoga by uniting our body, mind and breath. By bringing awareness to our breath, which is the nervous system's natural tranquilizer, we can bring the body and mind in union to a naturally induced, relaxed state. It is in this state that balancing and healing occurs.

Practicing yoga on our mat is our prerequisite for practicing our yoga in the world. As we bring our Selves to the mat, we come for study and deeper inquiry. If our eyes are opening, it is here we can begin to really observe how we respond to certain situations. Ultimately, we come to understand the way we perceive things, in a broader sense, and how we can continually create difficulties for ourselves. By understanding how we create these problems, we can also learn how to liberate ourselves from them.

Of course there isn't enough room on one web page to talk about this ancient and profound practice. But, I think it is important to add that it is part of THE oldest healing system, Ayurveda, in existence (6000 years!) - and THAT has to count for something!