The history of Yoga is an interesting one indeed. It is not entirely clear in many respects, but much is well known about the history of Yoga.
It is thought that the word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word yog meaning union or yoke. This is thought to refer to the ultimate aim of Yoga, which is a union. That union is supposed to be the union of body and mind, reaching a state of higher mental being or spiritual awareness.
Yoga was originally a spiritual undertaking, designed for the improvement of the spiritual being. It is much more commonly practiced today for its relaxation and health benefits, and because it is a fun pastime, but it was originally a spiritual quest.
It is known for its physical exercises which in turn facilitate with increased flexibility. It can also be extremely useful to facilitate meditation. Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years.
Some Yoga devotees claim that Yoga history starts with a carving of a man sitting cross legged with outstretched arms which as found on a seal which itself is thought to be around 8000 years old.
And some see the beginnings of Yoga to be found in the old Hindu writings known as Vedic Shastras. This would put Yoga at around 4000 years old.
Yoga as a discipline of that name can be found in the Upanishads which gave life to the Bhagavad Gita. This is considered to be the original writings on Yoga and sets out clearly the basis for the self realization which was Yogas goal. It also sets out the 3 main branches of Yoga known as Karma, Jnana and Bhakti.
There are now many streams of Yoga. Most are most closely related to Hatha Yoga which is younger than some other forms, thought to go back around 700 years. The Swami Swatamarama set out the major tenets of Hatha Yoga in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, and this form is followed by millions of Hindus as a way of life.
It is clear that the history of Yoga is not clear. That does not though detract from the fact that Yoga, particularly as practiced by more western adherents, is a relaxing and enjoyable pastime that has substantial health benefits. Whatever the history of Yoga, it is now practiced by many people in our society and is constantly growing in popularity.
If youd like to see what Yoga is all about then give it a try. You wont be disappointed.
To find out more about Yoga visit Peters Website The Good Yoga Guide at http://www.goodyogaguide.com/ and find out about Yoga Health Benefits and more including Yoga resources
- Related Articles
- Related Q&A
In Bible versus Quran: God wrestled with Jacob all the night
By: Prof.dr. Ibrahim Khalil | 10/11/2009The Bible says that Jacob was left alone; and the Lord God wrestled with him all the night until the breaking of the day. In the Noble Quran, Allah does not wrestle, if He wants to do anything, He just says: Be and it is.
Keep your memory, Keep your sweet flower
By: Writing is happiness | 09/11/2009Do you remember the moment when you receive flower from someone? Someone who is a special one in your life, your boy friend, your husband, your best friends or your family. Do you remember the feeling when he sends the flower to you and something you see in his eyes, the feeling when you touch flower, the gentle petal flowers, sweet smell and the happiness around you? That is a impression moment you can’t throw away and you want to keep it forever.
In the Quran: your sight on the Day of Judgment will be very sharp
By: Prof.dr. Ibrahim Khalil | 07/11/2009The Quran says that your sight on the Day of Judgment is acute, it is very sharp and piercing and is able to perceive what you used to reject in the life of this world.
In the Quran: They and their wives are on thrones reclining
By: Prof.dr. Ibrahim Khalil | 01/11/2009The Noble Quran says that the inhabitants of Paradise, they and their wives are on thrones reclining; reclining upon couches
Way Back To My Land
By: Jagmohan Kathait | 28/10/2009Article about need of connectivity in rural areas.
Story
By: Shanaz | 26/10/2009This is a story I wrote
MONDAY MORNING BLITZ
By: patrick ozah | 25/10/2009This article or story is based on my experience on a certain monday morning.
In Bible versus Quran: When the Earth was divided?
By: Prof.dr. Ibrahim Khalil | 23/10/2009The Bible says that: And unto Eber were born two sons: The name of the one was Peleg. For in his days was the earth divided. Eber and Peleg are not present therein in the Noble Quran.
Do I Really Want A Landice Treadmill?
By: Peter Crump | 28/10/2006 | Non-FictionSo is there anything so great about a Landice treadmill or not?
Do You Pay Too Much For The LifeFitness Treadmill Name?
By: Peter Crump | 23/10/2006 | Non-FictionLifefitness Treadmills is a well known brand name, especially in gyms. But are you just paying for the name, or is there a good treadmill behind that name?
Want To Improve Your Life? Try Ashtanga Yoga
By: Peter Crump | 19/10/2006 | Non-FictionThere are many ways to improve your life, but Ashtanga Yoga is certainly one of the best
Why Would You Want To Use A Precor Treadmill?
By: Peter Crump | 19/10/2006 | Non-FictionWould you really want to use a Precor Treadmill? Why would they be any different to any other treadmill?
Do I Have An Anxiety Problem?
By: Peter Crump | 18/10/2006 | Non-FictionAnxiety is common to everyone, in some circumstances. But for some it can get out of control.
The Trotter Treadmill - Too Expensive For Me?
By: Peter Crump | 18/10/2006 | Non-FictionA Trotter treadmill is definitely not the cheapest treadmill around, but is it good value?
Interested In History? How About The History Of Yoga?
By: Peter Crump | 18/10/2006 | Non-FictionThe history of Yoga is interesting, if not entirely clear. But regardless of its history, it is a fascinating discipline for millions of people
Need To Improve Your Health Or Flexibility? Try Yoga
By: Peter Crump | 13/10/2006 | Non-FictionYoga can have all sorts of health benefits, and these can include improvements in flexibility. This can have benefits in many areas of your life.