History of Yoga

The Ancient Origins of Yoga

Yoga is not the inspired or revealed gift of any one person. It evolved over thousands of years in India and was intuitively revealed to sages, seers and rishis when they were in deep meditative states (samadhi). It was collated, co-ordinated and systematized by the sage Patanjali (600 BC), in his classical treatise, the Yoga Sutras, which consist of 185 terse aphorisms (Sutra means thread).

The Meaning of Yoga

The word Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit 'yuj', meaning to bind, attach, yoke, join, to focus one's attention on, use and apply, union or communion.

Yoga in the Bhagavad Gita

When looking at the history of yoga, one cannot ignore the Bhagvad Gita. In the sixth chapter of the Bhagvad Gita, Lord Krishna explains the meaning of Yoga to Arjuna, as deliverance from contact with pain and sorrow. He says, "When his mind, intellect and self (ahamkara) are under control, freed from restless desire, so that they rest in the spirit within, a man becomes a Yukta – one in communion with God. A lamp does not flicker in a place where no winds blow; so it is with a yogi, who controls his mind, intellect and self, being absorbed in the spirit within him. When the restlessness of the mind, intellect and self is stilled through the practice of Yoga, the yogi by the grace of the Spirit within himself finds fulfilment. Then he knows the joy eternal which is beyond the pale of the senses which his reason cannot grasp. He abides in this reality and moves not there from. He has found the treasure above all others. There is nothing higher than this. He who has achieved this shall not be moved by the greatest sorrow. This is the real meaning of Yoga – a deliverance from contact with pain and sorrow."

The Philosophy of Balance

Yoga does not believe in excess, but in moderation and is the art of joyfully living in perfect harmony with the self and with Nature. It is an attitude of gratitude and constantly thanks and renews its links with the Higher Self and Nature. A yoga practitioner is always in a 'state of yes'.

Wisdom from the Kathopanishad

In the Kathopanishad, yoga is described as, "When the senses are stilled, when the mind is at rest, when the intellect wavers not – then, say, the wise, is reached the highest stage. This steady control the senses and the mind has been defined as yoga. He who attains it is free from delusion."

Living in the Present

Yoga is being constantly aware that the present moment is inevitable. Yoga is living in the present moment and making each moment – each breath a celebration of life.

The Evolution of Yoga Through Time

Pre-Classical Yoga (Before 2nd Century BCE)

The earliest evidence of yoga practices dates back over 5,000 years to the Indus Valley Civilization. Archaeological findings show seals depicting figures in yoga-like poses, suggesting that yoga was practiced even in ancient times.

Classical Yoga (2nd Century BCE - 5th Century CE)

This period is defined by Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, which systematized yoga philosophy and practice into eight limbs (Ashtanga): Yama (ethical standards), Niyama (self-discipline), Asana (postures), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (enlightenment).

Post-Classical Yoga (6th - 19th Century)

During this era, yoga masters developed practices to rejuvenate the body and prolong life. They created Tantra Yoga and developed what we now know as Hatha Yoga, focusing on physical practices to prepare the body for meditation.

Modern Yoga (20th Century to Present)

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, yoga masters began traveling to the West, introducing yoga to a global audience. Teachers like Swami Vivekananda, T. Krishnamacharya, and B.K.S. Iyengar brought yoga to international prominence, adapting ancient practices for modern practitioners.

Key Texts in Yoga History

The Vedas (1500-500 BCE)

The oldest scriptures of Hinduism, containing some of the earliest references to yoga philosophy and meditation practices.

The Upanishads (800-400 BCE)

Philosophical texts that elaborate on the Vedas, exploring the concepts of Brahman (ultimate reality) and Atman (individual soul), central to yoga philosophy.

The Bhagavad Gita (400-200 BCE)

A sacred text presenting yoga as a path to spiritual realization through devotion, action, and knowledge.

Patanjali's Yoga Sutras (200 BCE - 200 CE)

The foundational text of classical yoga, presenting the eight-limbed path and systematic approach to achieving enlightenment.

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika (15th Century)

A comprehensive guide to Hatha Yoga, detailing physical postures, breathing techniques, and purification practices.

Yoga's Journey to the West

The introduction of yoga to the Western world began in earnest in the late 19th century. Swami Vivekananda's presentation at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago (1893) marked a turning point, introducing yoga philosophy to American audiences.

In the 20th century, teachers like Paramahansa Yogananda, B.K.S. Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois, and T.K.V. Desikachar brought different styles and approaches of yoga to the West, each contributing to yoga's evolution and adaptation to modern lifestyles.

Contemporary Yoga

Today, yoga has become a global phenomenon, practiced by millions worldwide. While modern yoga often emphasizes physical fitness, there's a growing interest in yoga's deeper philosophical and spiritual dimensions.

Scientific research continues to validate the benefits ancient yogis discovered millennia ago, including stress reduction, improved physical health, and enhanced mental wellbeing. This convergence of ancient wisdom and modern science ensures yoga's relevance for future generations.