Yoga: History, Philosophy, Benefits, and Practice
Yoga is much more than a physical exercise — it’s a way of life, a science of harmony between body, mind, and soul. Rooted in ancient Indian tradition, yoga has evolved over thousands of years, spreading peace, balance, and wellness across the world. In this post, let’s explore the history, philosophy, benefits, and practice of yoga, and how it continues to transform lives even today. --- 🕉️ 1. The History of Yoga Yoga’s roots trace back over 5,000 years to ancient India. The word “Yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “Yuj”, meaning to unite — representing the union of the individual consciousness with the universal consciousness. 📜 Ancient Origins: Pre-Vedic and Vedic Era: The earliest mentions of yoga appear in the Rigveda, where sages practiced it for spiritual awakening and self-control. Upanishads (800–500 BCE): Introduced deeper ideas about meditation, breath control, and the connection between body and soul. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras (2nd Centur...