Why Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) is Important

2019-06-02

The Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) is a modern-day take on the centuries old tradition of Yoga. It aims to aid the beginners to get initiated into the fabulous world of Yoga, amidst potential confusion arising out of the proliferation of numerous schools and traditions that offer learning in this highly rewarding practice.
The word Yoga has been derived from the Sanskrit word Yuj which means to unite. With a 5000 year history, Yoga is more than just exercise and meditation. It is a complex set of practices consisting of physical postures, breathing techniques and relaxation. It is the bridge that connects the mind, body and soul to peace and harmony.

International Day of Yoga (IDY):
The International Day of Yoga is observed every year on 21st June. It is a celebration for ones mind, body and soul as the three reach a state of harmony through the practice of Yoga. IDY is an occasion to promote Yoga across the world and the spread the message of its countless rewards among the entire humanity.Followers of Yoga come together in group Yoga demonstrations and practice Yoga through a standardized set of Yoga drills called Common Yoga Protocol.

What is Common Yoga Protocol?
The International Day of Yoga requires harmonious mass demonstrations in which millions of people participate. In order to make the event a success, a common protocol was needed that will ensure that everything is in sync. Common Yoga Protocol was developed jointly by some of the most accomplished Yoga gurus of India to ensure the harmonious conduct of the whole event. CYP makes sure that a single protocol yields maximum benefit to maximum number of people, through careful selection of the asanas included in it. Common Yoga Protocol is, essentially, a specified sequence of Yogaasanas which lasts 45 minutes.

Why is it important?
Common Yoga Protocol is the best way for beginners to get inducted into the highly rewarding world of Yoga. CYP emerged out of the IDY observance, as it was necessary that in the whole IDY event had the required internal harmony, thus requiring a uniform protocol. CYP is a guide to how and when an asana is to be performed, leading to the attainment health benefits to the maximum number of people, irrespective of age, gender, race and other distinctions. Beginners can learn CYP in about 15 sessions of one-hour duration each. The fact that CYP will be the highlight of all activities related to International Day of Yoga 2019 gives it added relevance.

General Guidelines for taking up CYP:
Before starting the practice it is advised to ensure that the surroundings are clean. This should also extend to the cleanliness of body and mind. Yoga needs to be practiced in a calm and quiet environment and with an empty stomach. Their body and mind both need to be in a relaxed position. Wearing light and comfortable cotton clothes is advised, and the use of a Yoga mat or duree is needed. Yoga shouldn't be practiced in states of acute pain or illness. If a person feels weak in the course of the Yoga practice, lukewarm water with honey can be consumed. Consulting a doctor or a Yoga expert is advised during pregnancy and menstruation prior to performing the asanas.
The practice session will begin with a prayer followed by various Yogaasanas. Each Yoga asana will be beneficial and will have its own requirements to be performed perfectly. The body needs to be in a relaxed state and jerky movements during the asanasareto be avoided. Following the CYP will lead to harmony among mind, body and soul.
After the session, bath can be taken after a gap of 20-30 minutes. Food can also be consumed after the same time gap.
The Ministry of Ayush distributes free e-books and videos on CYP. You can learn about the whole process in depth through these resources.
For more details visit: http://ayush.gov.in/