Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit language ‘Yuj Dhatu’ which means the union of the soul with the divine, that is, yoga has so much power that it can make you achieve immortality. Some people mistakenly consider yoga to be simple but it is much more than that.
Yoga is primarily a spiritual discipline, in which the whole essence of the lifestyle has been imbibed. The word “Yoga” itself is like a complete science which unites the body, mind, soul and the universe. The history of yoga is about 5000 years old, which is known in ancient Indian philosophy as the practice of mind and body. Different styles of yoga combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. Yoga is an art as well as a science. It is a science, as it provides practical methods to control the body and mind, making deep meditation possible. And it being an art, unless it is practiced intuitively and sensitively, it will yield only superficial results. Yoga is not just a system of beliefs, but it takes into account the effect of body and mind on each other, and brings them into mutual harmony.
Yoga deals primarily with the circulation of energy in the body through pranayama, or energy-control. Yoga (yoga asana in Hindi) teaches how, through breath-control, a higher state of mind and awareness can be attained.
History of Yoga
Although there is no written evidence available about the discoverer of Yoga, but it is believed that Yoga originated in our country India. The 2,000-year-old “Yoga Sutras”, written by the Indian sage Patanjali on yoga philosophy, is considered a complete guide to controlling the mind and emotions, and developing spiritually. The Yoga Sutras are the earliest written record of yoga and one of the oldest texts in existence. It provides the framework for all modern formulations.
Yoga originated as an ancient practice with traces of its origins dating back to 3000 BC in India. Stone-carved figures of yoga postures can be found throughout the Indus Valley, depicting the original postures and practices. Yoga was developed to establish harmony between the heart and soul on the path to divine enlightenment. Also, it was found that yoga helps in treating many diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure and also helps in reducing physical injuries and chronic pain.
Yoga has helped in curing many diseases.Yoga is quite famous for its postures and asanas. Fitness was not the primary goal of yoga, but practitioners and followers of yoga practice also focused on other practices, such as expanding spiritual energy using breathing methods and mental meditation.
Also Read : Types of Yoga : A Complete Guide
