Associations of Yoga
Yoga history is complicated, but here is a basic overview on the history of yoga. Trace the history of yoga back over 5,000 years ago to the Indus Valley Civilization. While many of us associate yoga with Hinduism, yoga history has always been influenced by Buddhism, spiritual practice, gymnastic, and other practices. It is thought that Hatha Yoga was derived from Hinduism, while Tantra Yoga combines elements of both faiths.
Different stages of the history of yoga
The history of yoga can be divided into three main periods. The pre-classical period, which predated the development of Hinduism and Buddhism, included Indian philosophy, astrology, medicine, astrological traditions, and worshiping of nature. The classical period, which stretched from the 6th to the 9th centuries, incorporated yoga as part of the Hindu religious ritual. This tradition focused on yoga as a way to reach enlightenment. Other syncretistic religions also developed during this time.
Modern times bring us the discipline known as yoga. There are many versions of this discipline from varying countries and locations. Most modern practitioners are men and women who practice yoga to alleviate physical, mental, and emotional ailments. In fact, in many ways yoga is an exercise machine in itself. For this reason, many people practice yoga to improve their overall health, not just for better flexibility.
The history of yoga has seen gods, demons, and yoga teachers all through the ages. Many of the yoga techniques practiced today have their origins in ancient practices. India is the source of most of the world’s yoga practices. Many of the techniques originated in India and were later taken to other parts of the world.
How Yoga was introduced in India?
Yoga began in India but spread to neighboring regions. For example, Yoga was introduced to Tibet and other parts of Asia. China, Nepal, and Burma all developed versions of the discipline. The Tibetans practiced it in monasteries, while the Indians brought the discipline to the country. In India, these yogis primarily gathered in the holy temples of Sarnath and Anand. The history of Yoga in India can be traced through the Yoga Sutras.
Over the history of Yoga, there have been many modifications made to the original teaching. However, the basic teachings remain the same. The original intent behind Yoga is to unite the body, mind, and spirit.
There are many Yogic philosophies that were influenced over the history of Yoga. Some of those ideas are the belief in reincarnation and karma. Some of those ideas are still popular in the world today, while others have become history.
The history of Yoga continues today. There are many more ideas, disciplines, and schools that evolved from it. The history of Yoga can be viewed as a parallel with other ancient cultures such as those in India, China, Rome, and Egypt. It has influenced many other world cultures as well.
There is an interesting tale to follow about the history of Yoga. There is an alleged story of Buddha visiting an ancient Indian city, looking for someone who had not gone to Yoga. When he found out that this person did not practice Yoga, he decided to visit India again. This is how the history of Yoga was born.
Today, in India, Yoga is practiced all over the world. While in India it is mostly taught in the sacred temples, in America it is becoming popular at alternative centers and schools. Some of the methods are similar between the Yoga practices of India and the practices in America. Many have become so similar that they are able to teach students who have little knowledge of Yoga at all. Still, there are differences between the two practices.
The history of Yoga has included some controversy. Different groups claim ownership of certain Yoga materials and rituals. Ownership is sometimes confused with plagiarism.
Yoga and yogic customs – A natural path to permanent wellbeing
This history of Yoga is fascinating and colorful. The many faces of Yoga throughout the ages all have their own characteristics. It is interesting to learn about the various Yoga customs and philosophies.
