Yoga

The Origins and History of Yoga

Yoga traces its roots to the dawn of civilization. According to yogic lore, Shiva, the Adiyogi, first transmitted yogic knowledge to seven disciples known as the Saptarishis. They carried these teachings across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas, influencing various ancient cultures.

In India, Yoga evolved into a sophisticated system. Evidence from the Indus–Saraswati Civilization (circa 2700 BCE) shows yogic postures and meditative figures. Yogic concepts appear throughout:

• The Vedas and Upanishads
• Buddhist and Jain traditions
• Classical Darshanas
• The epics Ramayana and Mahabharata
• Shaiva, Vaishnava, and Tantric traditions

The sage Patanjali later systematized these teachings into the Yoga Sutras, defining the eightfold path of practice.

Schools of Yoga

Over centuries, various approaches developed, each offering a pathway to inner growth:

• Jnana Yoga – the path of wisdom
• Bhakti Yoga – the path of devotion
• Karma Yoga – the path of action
• Raja Yoga – the path of meditation and mind mastery
• Hatha Yoga – physical discipline preparing the body for deeper practice
• Mantra, Laya, Kundalini, Buddhist, and Jain Yogas, among others

Though diverse, all schools aim toward self-realization and freedom.

Yoga Practices for Health and Inner Transformation

Yama & Niyama

Ethical foundations that cultivate discipline, compassion, and mental clarity.

Asana

Physical postures that build stability, strength, and awareness — preparing the body for meditation.

Pranayama

Breath-regulation techniques that enhance vitality, balance the nervous system, and sharpen focus.

Pratyahara

Withdrawal of the senses, allowing the mind to turn inward.

Dharana, Dhyana & Samadhi

Stages of concentration, meditation, and complete absorption. Together, they lead to profound inner stillness and heightened awareness.

Bandhas & Mudras

Energetic locks and gestures that support advanced breathwork and meditation.

Shat-karmas

Detoxification practices that cleanse the body.

Yukta-ahara & Yukta-karma

Guidelines for mindful eating and balanced living.

The Four Fundamental Paths

Yoga recognizes four dimensions of human nature — body, mind, emotion, and energy — giving rise to four core paths:

• Karma Yoga – using the body through action
• Bhakti Yoga – using emotion through devotion
• Gyana Yoga – using the intellect
• Kriya Yoga – using internal energy

Most modern practices blend these dimensions to support holistic well-being.

Why Practice Yoga?

Yoga offers benefits that extend beyond flexibility and fitness:

• Improved physical health
• Stress reduction
• Emotional balance
• Clarity of mind
• Heightened awareness
• A deeper sense of connection and purpose

Ultimately, Yoga empowers individuals to live with harmony, balance, and inner freedom.