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The Seat Of Internal Yoga
There is an air of spirituality in Pondicherry that comes on strong. Even
since the revolutionary-turned-'Yogi' from Bengal, Sri Aurobindo, settled
here, peace-seekers from all around the world have beaten a track into
Pondicherry.
Pondicherry
is the seat of Yoga. Here one comes across the difference between living
and right living, through methods, which purify your body and mind.
Rewarding one with absolute command over them. One will discover Yoga as a
sound, healthy body and a focused, balanced mind.
Special courses have been designed for tourists who wish to orient
themselves towards Yoga. Structured as ten-lecture modules, these can be
tailored to suit any one's itinerary.
WHAT IS YOGA?
Yoga is an art, a science, and a philosophy. Yoga is a practical aid, not
a religion and its techniques may be practised by Buddhists, Jews,
Christians, Muslims, Hindus and Atheists alike. 
Over the millennia, four different paths of yoga have developed: 'Kama',
'Jnana', 'Bhakti' and 'Raja'.
Karma Yoga - The Active Path:
This form of yoga is most suitable for people with an active temperament.
The Karma Yogi works hard, selflessly, without expecting reward.
Jnana Yoga - The Philosophical Path:
Usually regarded as the most difficult of the paths of yoga. Demands a
sharp mind and an unclouded intellect. It uses an intellectual description
of the world as an illusion - 'Maya'.
Bhakti Yoga - The Devotional Path:
Through various practices such as chanting, prayer and mantras, the
Bhakti Yogi tries to see God in all. This practice tends to appeal to
emotional people. 
Raja Yoga - The Scientific Path:
Raja Yoga is based on a practical system of right conduct, a healthy
body, steady posture and balanced breathing.
THE FESTIVAL OFFERS
The International Festival of Pondicherry is a celebration of Yoga. Every
year. January 4th through 7th where one will pick up simple living and
high thinking.
Through:
Proper Exercise
At the festival one learns all about 'Asanas' - gentle stretching acts
that lubricate the joints, tones the nervous system, improves circulation,
relaxes tension and increases flexibility.
Proper Breathing
Tap into deep breathing techniques, which help to cleanse and nourish the
physical body. Besides, vital energy is released for physical and mental
rejuvenation.
Proper Relaxation
When the body and mind are continually overworked and stressed, their
natural efficiency diminishes. Here, one will find out how yogic methods
retrain the mind and muscles to relax completely.
Proper Diet
One will sample the enticingly fresh yogic diet to find himself attaining
a high standard of health, a keen intellect and serenity of mind.
Proper Thinking
Regular meditation helps you achieve a balanced mind that can stay in
control. One will learn many methods, which help one's thinking to become
more focused, and which improves your ability to concentrate.