Philippines Rishikesh Ayurveda Yoga School
History & Origin of Yoga
The origins of yoga are often
seen in the religious context of Hinduism. However, its development can be seen
outside of a religious context. However, some aspects were incorporated into
Hindu beliefs quite early on in India, and believers were able to benefit from
them.
Buddhism, which is widespread in India, was also
influenced by yoga. The techniques are not tied to any particular religious
denomination; rather, the meditation techniques are equally applicable to all
faiths.
The origins of yoga can be seen as a collection
of different practices that have developed over 5,000 years. In 1922,
archaeological finds in the Indus Valley at Mohenjo Daro depicted seals
depicting gods in meditation postures. These finds provide evidence that these
techniques were already practiced 4,000 years ago and possessed cultural
significance.
The most important text in all of yoga
literature can be found in the approximately 2,000-year-old "Yoga
Sutra" (yoga guide) by the Indian sage Patanjali. He is often referred to
as the father of yoga, although little more than his name is known about him.
In 195 mnemonics, he defines yoga as a system for calming the mind, concentrating,
and gathering oneself. He explains yoga as a holistic path of practice that
influences our ability to perceive, improves our understanding of ourselves,
and can therefore lead us to greater satisfaction in life. Regular practice of
body, breath, and mind is a prerequisite for this. The Yoga Sutras describe the
nature of human consciousness and the possibilities behind liberation from the
limitations of consciousness, as well as the abilities that arise from this.
The Yoga Sutra is widely recognized as the origin among most great yogis. It is
divided into four sections. The first section deals with the state of ecstasy,
the second with the path that must be followed. The third section describes the
powers that can be acquired and the fourth the liberation that can be achieved.
Probably between the 13th and 15th centuries,
several exercises were collected in detail. They became widespread under the
title "Hatha Yoga Pradipika" and were practiced by active yoga
practitioners. Hatha Yoga, which is popular in the West, originated here. The
word "Hatha" means effort and implies that only with regular practice
can the promised goals—health, alignment of mind, freedom from suffering, and
control over all aspects of the body—be achieved.
Traditionally, the Indian god Shiva is seen as
the original source of esoteric yoga knowledge. Many works begin with the
explanation that Shiva imparted it to his consort Parvati. He was overheard by
Matsyendra, the king of fishes, who later assumed human form and became the
founder of Hatha Yoga. One of the most well-known Indian gods, Krishna, is
credited with inspiring yoga.
A bewildering array of different yoga techniques
have evolved, all of which are part of the yoga process. Various combinations
have taken place, forming the distinct yoga paths. Yoga taught in the West
today hardly reflects any historical form of yoga. However, this does not
invalidate it. The possibilities are vast, even if the ultimate heights of
yogic success can probably only be achieved through long-term practice of the
traditional paths.