The body has specific requirements that need to be fulfilled for it to work at its optimum and for you to find inner peace. The ancients Yogis viewed the body as a vehicle for the soul and this is a useful metaphor for modern day. Just as a car needs a lubricating system, a battery, a cooling system, proper fuel and a responsible driver so does the body – yoga helps fulfill these through:
Proper exercise – asana (meaning steady pose) the physical exercise works on every part of the body, stretching and strengthening the muscles, the spine, as well as massaging and toning the internal organs, glands and nerves, keeping all systems in a radiant health. This is likened to the lubricating system in the metaphor of a car. Through the practice of asanas you become stronger and more flexible, your posture improves so you stand taller and your body becomes more toned. When performed in a slow and relaxed manner the asanas develop more than the physical body, they expand mental awareness and enhance spiritual capabilities– a steady body presupposes steady mind.
Proper breathing - pranayama (meaning control of vital energy or breath) through breathing techniques the energy within is released to revitalize and recharge the body, by connecting the body to its battery the Solar Plexus, where huge amounts of potential energy (prana) are stored. This helps to control the mind, leaving you feeling calm and refreshed. Using the breath during each asana helps you to hold and progress in the posture, releasing the energy (prana) in the body, so it flows freely. This is the battery in the car metaphor.
Proper relaxation – savasana is also a vital part of keeping the body and mind healthy; rest and relaxation are nature's way for the body to re-charge, maintaining the body's equilbrium. Relaxation is used to start a class and after asanas allowing the energy (prana) to move around the body and then on a deeper level at the end of a class. Yoga teaches relaxation on three levels – physical, mental and spiritual. This is the cooling system in the car metaphor.
Proper diet- vegetarian is eating with awareness. Supplying the body with food that has most positive effect on the body and least negative effect on the environment. This is the proper fuel so that the car would need to operate.
Positive thinking and meditation – The practice of positive thinking and meditation gives increased clarity, improves concentration and brings peace of mind which is beneficial to those with a hectic stressful life. In the car metaphor this is the responsible driver, you drive the vehicle and choose which direction to go.