We all know and love the practice of yoga. Millions of people around the world enjoy its countless physical and mental benefits but the question remains. Where did yoga come from? In this article, I’ll be exploring and summarise a brief history and the origins of yoga practices.
The roots of yoga can be traced back through history to almost 5,000 years ago. This takes us back to the Vedic period, around the years of 5000 BCE. There is proof of yoga existing back then thanks to the scriptures found in the Rig Veda, the oldest book in the world.
According to the Rig Veda, Yoga was one of six authoritative systems in the Indian Philosophy. The precise date is extremely difficult to acknowledge. However, knowing this era is far more important than the precise date.
The actual term ‘yoga’ has many meanings. It is a Sanskrit term that translates into ‘to yoke or harness’.
One metaphor that is used to describe yoga in traditional India is how an individual would control at ox by ‘harnessing’ it to a wagon. It relates to this term in the terms of training, uniting all aspects of man, the body, the spirit and the mind. Since its cultural adoption, yoga has been transformed into countless forms throughout the centuries.
By the years 200 BCE to 250 BCE, one of the most traditional forms of yoga, Ashtanga, had been perfected by a sage known as Patanjali. Ashtanga translated from Sanskrit defines as ‘Eight Limbs of Yoga’.
Although there is not much known about the sage himself, there are numerous attritions crediting him for written texts during these eras. These written texts documented Ayurveda and Yoga.
Summarised, Ashtanga Yoga is described as a mental and spiritual discipline. It is the aim of the practice to promote harmony within the body. It can also be used to create a deeper connection with yourself, with God or another reality.
Yoga Today
Since its origins over 5,000 years ago, there have been many adaptations of the practice. This includes variations in religious practices such as Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. Since then, yoga has been practised and passed down through the generations. There are many adaptations that still exist today but with the help of science and centuries of refining, today’s modern-day yoga is quite possibly the most beneficial.
Still such a popular practise around the world in all cultures, I feel it’s safe to assume that the practice of yoga could easily last another 5,000 years! Are you looking to start practising yoga for yourself? Looking for tips on Yoga and the best way to find your own path? Leave a comment below to spark the conversation that could change your life!
