SADHANA: Once the great Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh said that "an ounce of practice is worth a tonne of knowledge"... any yogi can re-confirm this statement, as true knowledge is the one you receive intuitively through your own practice. Books are helpful as they can inspire you, guide you and clarify certain paths and techniques, but practice is the only way to experience the great values of Yoga, being physical, mental or spiritual. This practice is called in Sanskrit term "SADHANA".
We need to respect our body and care for it as without our senses we could not access our mental or emotional states, and later experience the deeper levels of consciousness. These higher states of consciousness help us to achieve a state of Union with the Supreme Consciousness and the creative Cosmic Energy (Shiva-Shakti), realising our true nature which is the state of SAT-CHIT-ANANDA "Truth, Consciousness, Bliss".
Yoga is a wonderful path that helps us realise our full potential, and we must never forget to show full respect to the great Masters who for thousand of years have shown us the way out of pure compassion. These enlightened beings may have retreated to the heights of the Himalayas or entered the state of Mahasamadhi (leaving your physical body), but their energy will connect with anyone who is a true seeker along the path. When you practice, even in the most simple way, even if you are a beginner, if your intention is pure and your desire to become a better human being is strong, progress will manifests in unexpected gifts from Nature (health may improve, some addiction may weaken, relation with people may be more fulfilling, greater intuition experienced and so on...).
Just as we have learned when we were children, taking the first steps are crucial to our development, and this applies to any areas of life. Constant & regular practice gives you the foundation on which to grow, faith is the "fertilizer" that will make your practice enjoyable and direct you along your path. Starting from the physical aspect is the easiest for most of us; by practicing asanas tension is released allowing the energy (Prana) to flow more easily. By controlling this energy through breathing techniques (Pranayama) we access higher level of consciousness, creating a sense of balance. When the mind is calm and the senses satisfied, the ego is no longer an enemy or an hindrance, and the natural state of compassion will manifest through you, this is one of the best food for the soul! As you progress along the path, and happily surrender to the Divine energy and Greater Intelligence, the state of SAMATHA (equilibrium), SANTOSHA (happiness), SHANTI (peace) will remain in your heart.
