The History and Origins of Yoga

Yoga is a practice that has grown in popularity in recent times, but its origins date back thousands of years. It is an ancient system of physical and mental exercises that originated in India and is still widely practiced today. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj”; means union or yoke.

The earliest known mention of yoga comes from the Rigveda, an ancient Indian text which was written around 1500 BC. The Rigveda describes the practice of yoga as a way to connect with the divine within and attain a sense of inner peace. Over may centuries, the practice of yoga gas evolved and developed into different schools and styles, gaining popularity all over the world.

The classical form of yoga is known as Raja Yoga or the “Royal Path”, which was first outlined in the Yoga Sutras by the sage Patanjali around 200 BCE. This system emphasizes meditation, concentration, and self-discipline as paths to spiritual enlightenment.

Besides Raja Yoga, there are many other forms of Yoga that have evolved over time. Hatha yoga, which focuses on postures and breathing exercises, is one of the most popular forms of yoga practiced in the West. Kundalini Yoga, which focuses on awakening energy in the body, is another popular form of yoga. The spread of yoga beyond India dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Indian yoga masters began traveling to Europe and the United States. One of the most influential teachers was Swami Vivekananda, who introduced yoga to the West in 1893 at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the Indian teacher Tirumalai Krishnamacharya developed a new system of yoga postures, practicing breathing and meditation. Known as Vinyasa Yoga, this system has become the foundation of many modern yoga styles, including Ashtanga Yoga and Power Yoga.

Today, Yoga is practiced all over the world and there are countless yoga styles and schools to choose from. While most people associate the postures and breathing exercises with yoga, the real essence of the practice goes much further. Yoga is a way to connect with our inner selves, cultivate inner peace and find a sense of oneness with the world around us.

To learn more about the History and Origins of Yoga, we recommend the following books and resources*;