Generally, the practice of Yoga identifies the body as an abode of the spirit and there is need that it be taken care of very carefully as one of the very major stages of our spiritual development. Through the practice of learning different body postures one is actually able to gain for themselves a habit of self discipline and the ability to concentrate and focus their attention, two very important practices that are requisite especially when one wants to learn the practice of meditation. One can learn to put the body in a comfortable position for a good amount of time and use it finally as an important tool for spiritual powers. The opposite is also true as well.
The other important part of the whole process of doing Yoga is learning how to control and acquire mastery of one’s respiration since Yoga emphasizes the great connection that exists between the breath, mind and emotions. Actually according to Yoga breath control can be referred to as the life force. By learning to breathe well you will not only invigorate the body but will also in the process you will be extending life itself. This is among the fundamental practices one gets to learn early in the practice of Yoga.
A very important stage in Yoga is one during which a person makes a deliberate effort to draw their awareness from all things that appertain to the external world and anything that is outside of themselves and then direct all energy and attention inwards. When this step is accomplished successfully, one can literally step aside and take a good look at oneself and it may happen during breathing exercise or perhaps meditation. The practice of detachment is one of the greatest techniques of Yoga is basically used for pain control and when one intends to subdue symptoms that accompany some chronic diseases.