THE HISTORY OF YOGA

by Claire Graham

 

Yoga is an ancient practice that has been around for thousands of years. Its origins can be traced back to the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India, which existed over 5,000 years ago. The earliest evidence of yoga comes from the Indus-Sarasvati seals, which depict figures sitting in meditation.

Over time, yoga developed into a complex system of physical, mental, and spiritual practices. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, written around 400 CE, are considered to be the foundation of classical yoga. These sutras describe an eight-limbed path, or Ashtanga Yoga, which includes practices such as meditation, asanas (physical postures), and pranayama (breathing exercises). In the centuries that followed, yoga continued to evolve and spread throughout India. Different schools of yoga emerged, each with their own methods and practices. Some of the most well-known schools include Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, and Raja Yoga.

It wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that yoga began to gain popularity outside of India. Swami Vivekananda, a disciple of the famous Indian mystic Ramakrishna, introduced yoga to the West during his travels to the United States and Europe. Vivekananda’s teachings helped to establish yoga as a spiritual and physical practice that could benefit people from all walks of life.
In the 1920s, the Indian teacher Krishnamacharya began to develop a style of yoga that emphasized physical postures and breathing techniques. He taught this style to several Western students, including B.K.S. Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois, who went on to become influential teachers in their own right.

During the 1960s and 70s, yoga became even more popular in the West as part of the broader counterculture movement. Many young people were drawn to the spiritual and physical aspects of yoga as a way to rebel against mainstream culture and find greater meaning in their lives. Today, yoga is a global phenomenon with millions of practitioners around the world. It has become a mainstream activity that is widely recognized for its physical and mental health benefits. Yoga classes are available in gyms, community centers, and yoga studios, and there are countless books, videos, and websites that offer instruction on various styles and techniques.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to reclaim the spiritual roots of yoga and integrate them into modern practice. Many yoga teachers and practitioners are exploring the ancient wisdom and teachings that underlie the physical postures and breathing exercises, and seeking to create a more holistic approach to yoga that honors its rich history and traditions.

In conclusion, the history of yoga is a long and complex one, with roots that stretch back thousands of years. From its humble origins in the Indus-Sarasvati civilization to its current status as a global phenomenon, yoga has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and desires of practitioners. Today, it remains a powerful tool for promoting physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth.

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79,00

PRO Yoga Mats

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PRO Yoga Mats

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PRO Travel Yoga Mats

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