Our Blog

Yoga, a profound treasure of ancient wisdom, has its roots deeply embedded in the rich soil of Indian philosophy. This millennia-old practice, dating back over 5,000 years, originated in the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India. The word "yoga" itself, derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj," means to join or to unite, symbolizing the union of body and consciousness.

Initially, yoga was more of a meditative and spiritual practice than the physical form of exercise widely known today. The earliest references to yoga practices are found in the Vedas, ancient sacred texts of spiritual knowledge. Among these, the Rigveda, the oldest of the texts, mentions yoga practices, albeit in a form vastly different from what we see in contemporary practices.

The evolution of yoga into a comprehensive system of physical and mental practices is attributed to the legendary sage Patanjali, who compiled the Yoga Sutras around 400 CE. This collection of 196 sutras or aphorisms is considered one of the most important texts in the yoga tradition, outlining the Eight Limbs of Yoga. These limbs, a series of steps and stages towards achieving spiritual enlightenment, include ethical standards, personal disciplines, posture, breath control, sensory withdrawal, concentration, meditation, and eventually, samadhi, a state of ecstatic absorption.

Over centuries, yoga underwent diversification and codification, leading to the development of various schools and styles. From the meditative and philosophical depths of Jnana Yoga, the path of knowledge, to the devotion-filled practices of Bhakti Yoga, and the disciplined lifestyle of Karma Yoga, the practice evolved to include a broad spectrum of philosophies and techniques.

The physical aspect of yoga, known more formally as Hatha Yoga, began to gain prominence in the 15th century with the publication of texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. This form emphasized the physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and cleansing techniques (shatkarmas), laying the groundwork for the physical styles of yoga popular in today’s wellness culture.

Yoga's journey to the Western world began earnestly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with pioneers like Swami Vivekananda introducing its philosophy and practices to new audiences. It gained significant popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, evolving into a diverse array of styles that cater to the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of millions around the globe.

Today, yoga is recognized not only as a form of physical exercise but also as a holistic discipline that integrates mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. It continues to adapt, influenced by cultures and communities worldwide, yet remains anchored in its ancient roots. Its global appeal and enduring relevance testify to yoga’s transformative power, offering a path to wellness and enlightenment that is as pertinent now as it was over five millennia ago.

What is Yoga?