It is surprising these days to find anybody who is alien to the word ‘Yoga.’ The word Yoga has been in use since ancient times, when it was first used in Hindu religious books. Yoga originated in the Sanskrit language. It is a group of physical and mental practices which allow one to meditate and it leads to mental relief and composure.
It is one of the orthodox schools of Hindu Philosophy. There are various forms of Yoga, and the most commonly known are Hath Yoga and Raja Yoga. The early history of Yoga was written on fragile palm tree leaves which have long been misplaced, damaged or lost somewhere between the ages. For better understanding of the terms of yoga, you should hire a translator or translator agency that can decode the hidden meaning of the word for you.
Origin of yoga
The origin of Yoga is said to date back to pre-Vedic Indian traditions as it has been mentioned in Rigveda, but most likely it is likely to have developed during fifth and sixth centuries BCE. The Sanskrit language word is derived from Yuj which means to attach or join. The spiritual sense of this word lies in ‘uniting’ the human spirit with the Divine. The opinion on the origin of Yoga is divided. It is said to have been derived from two words, Yujir Yoga which means “to yoke” or Yuj Samadhi which means “to concentrate.”
How long has Yoga been practiced for?
Yoga is said to have been practised for at least 5000 – 10000 years. There is still no certainty in this information because the scriptures of Yoga have been lost. Yogas history can be divided into four main periods of innovation, practice, and development.
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Pre-classical Yoga
This refers to the origin of yoga which dates back to over 5000 years. It was first mentioned in the old sacred texts of Rig Veda. The Vedas were a collection of mantras and rituals to be used by Brahmans. However, with time Yoga was redefined and it was documented in Upanishads which is a collection of huge work containing over 200 scriptures.
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Classical Yoga
There were conflicts and contradictions in the pre-classical yoga. The beliefs and techniques conflicted with each other, and at this time, Patanjali’s Yoga sutras were formulated which is the first systematic presentation of Yoga.
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Post-classical yoga
In this era, the yoga masters redefined the systems of practices to rejuvenate the body. They rejected the practices and teachings of ancient times and Vedas and embraced physical body as a medium to achieve enlightenment. This is where the physical and spiritual connections and body-centered practices led to the creation of Hatha Yoga.
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Modern Yoga
In this era, Hatha Yoga was promoted in India with the efforts of renowned Yogis who practiced it in the west where it was initially discovered.
Today, yoga practice classes are conducted all over the world owing to its effects in relieving stress and anxiety of the shoulders. Yogis have found that it also helps in improving some medical conditions. This low impact activity can help in increasing health and stamina and the conditions which are brought by today’s sedentary lifestyle.
