The word yoga means to yolk or unite with a higher source. Traditionally we did the asana (the postures) pranayama (breath work) so that we could sit and meditate for long period of time without dwelling on a stiff back or congestion in our thought process. There are numerous meditation techniques out there such as silent meditation, gratitude meditation, mantra meditation. All with the goal of attaining higher consciousness. The benefits of meditation are happiness, contentment, clarity of thought, tress relief and a positive outlook on life.