The Origin of Yoga
Yoga is an ancient practice that has its roots in India. While the exact origins of yoga are unknown, it is believed to have started over 5,000 years ago.
The first mention of yoga is in the ancient Indian texts known as the Vedas. These texts predate even the oldest of the Hindu scriptures, the Upanishads. In the Vedas, yoga is mentioned as a way to still the mind and experience inner peace.
Yoga really began to develop and evolve, though, in the centuries that followed. Various schools of thought emerged, each with its own unique philosophies and practices.
One of the most influential figures in the history of yoga was a man named Patanjali. He is best known for writing the Yoga Sutras, a collection of 195 aphorisms that outline the eight limbs of yoga. The eight limbs of yoga are:
1. Yama (moral restraints)
2. Niyama (observances)
3. Asana (posture)
4. Pranayama (breath control)
5. Pratyahara (sense withdrawal)
6. Dharana (concentration)
7. Dhyana (meditation)
8. Samadhi (absorption)
These eight limbs are often described as a “path” or “journey” that leads to the goal of yoga, which is self-realization or enlightenment.
Yoga truly began to spread beyond India in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Thanks to pioneers like Swami Vivekananda, yoga started to gain popularity in the West.
And in the last few decades, yoga has exploded in popularity. Millions of people all over the world now practice yoga regularly. And it’s not just for hippies and yoga instructors anymore! Celebrities, business people, athletes, and even politicians are doing yoga.
