Yoga is a holistic practice that integrates physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines. It originated in ancient India and has evolved over thousands of years, encompassing a wide range of practices aimed at achieving harmony and balance in life.
The earliest evidence of yoga-like practices dates back to around 3000 BCE, found in the form of seals depicting figures in meditative postures. The Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts (circa 1500 BCE), also contains references to yogic practices.
The word "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj," which means "to yoke" or "to unite." It signifies the union of the individual self with the universal consciousness.
Written around 400 CE, the yoga sutras of Patanjali are the foundational text that systematises yoga practice into eight limbs, known as Ashtanga Yoga. The epic text, Bhagavad Gita, also discusses various forms of yoga- Karma Yoga (path of action), Bhakti Yoga (path of devotion), and Jnana Yoga (path of knowledge).
Hatha Yoga emerged around the 11th century, focusing on physical postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama). But it was popularised globally through the efforts of influential teachers like Swami Vivekananda, Tirumalai Krishnamacharya and others.
Yoga is both a state of being and a practice. It aims to achieve balance, harmony and self-realisation through disciplined practices.
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