Swami Sivananda, the founder of Divine Life Society, was a renowned spiritual leader and a proponent of the ancient practice of yoga. His philosophy on yoga was rooted in the belief that it is not just a physical exercise, but a holistic way of life that can lead to spiritual enlightenment and inner peace.

According to Swami Sivananda, yoga is a means to unite the body, mind, and soul. He believed that by practicing yoga, one can achieve physical, mental, and emotional balance, leading to a state of harmony and well-being. He emphasized the importance of incorporating the eight limbs of yoga, as described by Patanjali, into one's daily life.

Swami Sivananda's philosophy on yoga was based on the principle of self-discipline and self-awareness. He believed that through the practice of yoga, one can cultivate self-control and develop a deeper understanding of oneself. This, in turn, can help individuals overcome their negative thoughts and emotions, leading to a more positive and peaceful state of mind.

One of the key teachings of Swami Sivananda was the importance of ahimsa, or non-violence, in yoga. He believed that practicing ahimsa towards oneself and others is essential for spiritual growth. This included being kind and compassionate towards all living beings, as well as avoiding harm to oneself through unhealthy habits or negative thoughts.

Swami Sivananda also emphasized the importance of pranayama, or breath control, in yoga. He believed that by controlling the breath, one can control the mind and achieve a state of inner calmness. He taught various breathing techniques, such as deep breathing and alternate nostril breathing, as a means to purify the mind and body.

Another key aspect of Swami Sivananda's philosophy on yoga was the concept of karma yoga, or selfless service. He believed that by serving others without any expectation of rewards, one can attain spiritual growth and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

In addition to physical postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama), Swami Sivananda also stressed the importance of meditation in yoga. He believed that through meditation, one can still the mind and connect with the divine within oneself. He taught various meditation techniques, including mantra meditation, to help individuals deepen their spiritual practice.

In conclusion, Swami Sivananda's philosophy on yoga was centered around the idea of using yoga as a tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth. He believed that by incorporating the eight limbs of yoga into one's life, practicing ahimsa, pranayama, karma yoga, and meditation, one can achieve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. His teachings continue to inspire and guide countless individuals on their journey towards inner peace and enlightenment.