Where did yoga come from? The ancient spiritual and physical activity that is Yoga has been enjoyed by millions around the globe. Yoga was first discovered in the East and then spread to the West.
Yoga has its origins in ancient India, and was developed as a way to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Today, it is practiced all over the world for its many health benefits. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, there’s always something new to learn about this millennia-old tradition. So read on to find out more about where yoga came from!
Where Did Yoga Come From?
The growth and influence of Yoga was a long process. However, it is possible to follow the history of Yoga by understanding the three periods in which it began. These are the periods known as:
- The Classical Period
- The Post-Classical Period
- Modern Period
Each period is unique and has its own story.
Classical Yoga
Patanjali was a compiler of the Yoga Sutras in the second century. He was an important collection of Yoga practices. Yoga is the center of metaphysics and meditation in traditional Hinduism. These practices help one to focus more on the mind and body than on an individual to heal or comfort them.
He also created the 8-limbed Path, which uses different words to indicate different areas of concentration.
- YAMA conducts toward others, moral observances, or social discipline
- NIYAMA is directed towards the Self, individual discipline, or restraints
- ASANA means posture
- DHYANA means Meditation
- SAMADHI Self-Realization
It is not surprising that Yoga’s physical aspects are in harmony with Buddhist ideologies.
Post-Classical Yoga
Yoga went through many changes during this time. It was practiced, and sometimes even modified in certain ways. It helped to open the door for its use in America and made it a new lifestyle.
It had evolved into a cleansing of your system and a way for you to connect with your spiritual side. The focus was on the mental side of life, rather than the physical.
It allowed people to truly get to know themselves by using relaxation and meditation techniques to relieve stress.
Modern Yoga
This was the time Yoga started to be fun in the West. However, it is still very much respected in the East.
Yoga became popular in the 1960-1970s, especially during the ” Hippie” movement. At that time, people didn’t care about traditional ways of living and were open to the spiritual benefits of yoga. After it became a West Coast trend, that made it even more popular. It was the beginning of the “healthier” lifestyle that many people strive to live.
Different people may interpret yoga in different ways
Some people view it as a way to lose weight. To others, it is an art form that brings everlasting happiness and enlightenment to others. There are certain “rules” that must be followed, and there are certain ways to live.
It doesn’t matter if you use it for one purpose, it has a huge health benefit. It can help you lose weight or make you a happier person.
This is a healthy activity that everyone can enjoy.
Yoga’s History Conclusion
Yoga has a long and varied history, dating back thousands of years. While the specifics of its origins are unknown, we can trace many of its principles back to ancient India. Today, yoga is practiced all over the world for its physical and mental benefits. If you’re interested in trying yoga yourself, be sure to find a certified instructor to help you get started on the right foot. With so many health benefits associated with it, there’s no reason not to give yoga a try!
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