All Yogic practices undertaken by an aspirant of a new initiated should be adhered to with strict discipline, faith in oneself, tenacity and perseverance without interruptions. The practice of Asanas or postures without the backing of Yama and Niyama is mere acrobatics.

Yamas and Niyamas are given precedence by our Yogic in the Yogic curriculum because without their practice, Asanas do not give the desired results.

Under 'Yamas' come certain firm and solemn decisions to train and regulate one's behavioral attitudes towards social problems, while Miasmas emphasize a cultivation of certain personal habits and attitudes. Coming back to the physical level, before starting the practice of Asanas.....

The bladder should be emptied and the bowels evacuated. Empty stomach practice is highly advocated but a cup of tea or coffee or milk does no harm. Solid food can be consumed half an hour after the Yoga-sessions. Usually, a bath is recommended, about fifteen minutes later. Allow at least 5 hours to elapse after a heavy meal before yogic practice. The best time prescribed for practice is when there are no disturbances.

One a concentrate more on the practice of Yoga during the week hours when the mind, body and pollution - free air provide a good environment. The practice is not advised at all when one has been out in the hot sun for a couple of hours.

The place for Yogic practice should be clean, dust free and airy : as well as free from insects and noise. Practicing Asanas on a bare floor or on an uneven surfaceshould be avoided. A folded woolen blanket, or a mat laid on a level floor is quite sufficient. Do wear loose clothes. Try and avoid any undue strain on the facial muscles.

The eyes must be closed gently: to avoid distractions and to enable you to make mental notes on what's happening in the body and in the mind. It keeps the brain alert, watchful and passive. In all the asanas, breathing should be only through the nostrils.

During menstruations, women should avoid Asanas. All Asanas can be practiced during the first 3 months of pregnancy.In any case no pressure should be felt on the abdomen.

Pranayama without retention of the breath or kumbhaka may be practiced throughout pregenancy as regular deep breathing will help considerably during labour. No Asanas delivery. Absolute abstinence is not recommended, because sexual desire, if rigorously curbed, will be diverted into other channels and become more dangerous than if natural satisfied.

The object is not to suppress sexuality, the creative fountain of life, but to sublimate and control it. Therefore, extend the period between indulgences avoid meat, alcohol and smoking. Determine to be master in your won house. Habits must be consciously formed so that they clear the way to the ultimate state of expanded consciousness aimed at in YOGA.