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History of Yoga: Explore the Ancient Roots of Yoga

Yoga has many positive effects on a person’s physical and mental health. And that’s why as per the International Yoga Federation, around 300 million people practice yoga globally. This practice of bringing harmony between mind and body has gained massive popularity, thanks to its many benefits. Improving posture, relieving back pain, promoting mindfulness, and reducing stress, among many other benefits of yoga has proven how Yoga contributes to the material and spiritual upliftment of humanity. Let's learn more about the origins and history of Yoga.

What is Yoga?

The word ‘Yoga’ comes from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj’, which means ‘to unite’. It’s a spiritual discipline and can be regarded as the art and science of healthy living. Yoga practitioners are called yogi or yogini, but you don’t have to be one to reap its benefits. Irrespective of age, gender, religion, or even fitness levels, Yoga is for everyone.

Where does yoga come from?

According to mythology, Lord Shiva is the first yogi or the Adiyogi. Though it can’t be proved, it is believed that thousands of years ago, on Mount Kailash in the Himalayas, he shared his profound knowledge with his seven disciples - the legendary Saptarishis or "seven sages”. The sages then carried the yogic science to different parts of the world. However, India is regarded as the home of the yogic system. Agastya Muni, one of the seven sages, is often credited for framing the Yogic culture, not just as a philosophy, but as a way of life.

What “Union” Does Yoga Create?

The obvious question is the union of which elements. Well, as per Yogic scriptures, the union in Yoga’s context means an individual’s consciousness blending with that of the Universal Consciousness. It leads to perfect harmony between the mind, body, and soul by eliminating Maya (illusion). Advanced practitioners believe that the true essence of yoga is uniting two things that were never detached to begin with and one must merely remove the illusion of separation between our egos and higher selves. Yoga is a way towards self-realization that allows the Yogi to overcome all kinds of suffering by reaching a state of liberation (Moksha) or freedom (Kaivalya).

History of Yoga

It is widely believed that Yoga dates back to 2700 B.C., but some people believe that it’s older than that. There is no consensus on yoga's chronology, but undoubtedly, Yoga practices and the related literature has been documented in scriptures like Vedas, Upanishads, Smritis, Buddhism, Jainism, Puranas, and others. In the Bhagavad Gita, the epic poem that takes place on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, Guru (Lord Krishna) discusses life and yogic philosophy with his pupil (Arjun). The poem elaborates the concept of Gyan Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Karma Yoga.

How the Practice Has Evolved Into What We Practice Today

Yoga is an ever-evolving practice. The fact that more than 30 million Americans practice yoga, is a good indicator of how popular ancient art and science are in the modern world. Today, there are yoga studios across the globe in every big and small city. We have simultaneously seen Yoga evolving as a business opportunity. Today, tourism packages are sold with Yoga retreats included in them. The pandemic further pushed people to take care of their bodies and minds and Yoga was adopted by millions through online classes. There is a wide variety of yoga disciplines to choose from and some new trends like Aqua yoga or Rope wall yoga also intrigue the practitioners. Yoga is easy to learn.Modern life means more comforts and conveniences and also a bigger risk of obesity, hypertension and heart problems due to the sedentary and stressful lifestyles. This has also led to mental health issues. Amid all these, yoga is the ray of hope. Apart from its many benefits,yoga guides us toward a life with a greater sense of equanimity, harmony, and well-being.

Conclusion

Yoga is known for its physical benefits, but there is more to yoga than simply these benefits. It paves the path for spiritual enlightenment. The relevance of yoga has increased substantially and the world celebrates International Yoga Day on June 21. The benefits of yoga help you to improve your core strength, maximize flexibility, release stress, calm your thoughts, while strengthening your emotional resilience.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on March 28, 2022