Ancient Yoga
More in depth info and practice found inside the Academy
Origins and Early Practices
Vedic Period (circa 1500–500 BCE):
Yoga's origins can be traced back to the Vedic texts, which are the oldest sacred writings in Hinduism. The Vedas (especially the Rigveda) contain hymns, prayers, and philosophical musings about the nature of existence, the self, and the cosmos.
The practice of yoga during this period was focused primarily on rituals and meditation to connect with the divine.
The term "yoga" itself means "union" or "discipline," signifying the union of the individual soul with the universal or divine.
Upanishadic Period (circa 800–400 BCE):
During the time of the Upanishads, which are philosophical texts that elaborate on the ideas found in the Vedas, yoga evolved into a more focused system of spiritual practice. It was primarily aimed at attaining self-realization and understanding the nature of the universe.
Practices like meditation (dhyana), self-inquiry, and asceticism began to take shape. These methods were directed toward achieving moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth).
The idea of mind-body unity became central, and yoga began to emphasize meditative techniques, breathing exercises (pranayama), and self-discipline.
Classical Yoga: The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (circa 2nd century BCE):
One of the most influential texts in the history of yoga is the Yoga Sutras by the sage Patanjali. The Sutras provided a systematized approach to yoga and laid down the eight "limbs" (ashtanga) of yoga:
Yama (ethical practices)
Niyama (personal observances)
Asana (physical postures)
Pranayama (breath control)
Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses)
Dharana (concentration)
Dhyana (meditation)
Samadhi (enlightenment or bliss)
Patanjali’s system emphasized the importance of mental discipline, focusing on meditation, and the cultivation of a balanced life to achieve liberation.
Post-Classical Yoga (circa 5th–15th centuries CE)
Tantric Yoga:
The Tantra tradition, which emerged around the 5th century CE, added another layer to yoga practice. Tantra was not solely concerned with meditation but also incorporated physical postures, rituals, and an exploration of the body’s energy systems (like the chakras).
The Tantric influence led to the development of many of the asanas (postures) that are practiced in modern yoga.
Bhakti and Hatha Yoga:
Around the 7th–12th centuries, Bhakti Yoga (devotion to a personal deity) and Hatha Yoga (focusing on physical postures and breath control) started gaining prominence.
Hatha Yoga emphasized purifying the body, preparing it for higher states of consciousness. It included practices like asanas, pranayama, and mudras (hand gestures).
This is when the physical aspects of yoga began to receive more attention, leading to the development of various postures that are commonly seen in modern yoga.
Modern Yoga (19th–20th centuries)
Introduction to the West:
Yoga’s popularity in the West began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, thanks in large part to Indian spiritual leaders like Swami Vivekananda, who introduced the teachings of yoga at the 1893 Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago.
This sparked curiosity and interest in yoga, especially as a spiritual discipline, in the Western world.
Hatha Yoga and the Physical Focus:
In the early 20th century, the emphasis on physical postures (asanas) grew, especially through the work of figures like Krishnamacharya (known as the father of modern yoga). He taught many influential yoga teachers, including B.K.S. Iyengar, T.K.V. Desikachar, and Pattabhi Jois, who would all later popularize their unique forms of yoga.
Iyengar focused on precise alignment and the use of props (blocks, straps, etc.).
Jois developed Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, emphasizing dynamic movement and a set sequence of postures.
This period saw the rise of Vinyasa, Hatha, and Power Yoga, all focusing on physical postures as a means to improve strength, flexibility, and health.
Yoga as Fitness:
By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, yoga in the West increasingly became associated with physical fitness and wellness. Yoga studios began to pop up across the United States and Europe, and the practice evolved to accommodate modern fitness trends.
Many modern forms of yoga, such as Hot Yoga (Bikram Yoga) and Power Yoga, became more about physical endurance and strength than spirituality or meditation.
Global Spread and Fusion:
As yoga spread globally, it also began to blend with other fitness practices, including Pilates and aerobics. Yoga became more adaptable and accessible to people of all fitness levels and backgrounds.
The "yoga lifestyle"—which includes vegetarianism, mindfulness, and holistic health—became a part of the wellness movement.
Key Changes Over Time
Spiritual to Physical Focus: Originally, yoga was a deeply spiritual practice with an emphasis on meditation, self-awareness, and union with the divine. Over time, especially in the modern era, yoga has shifted toward physical postures, often focusing on health, fitness, and stress relief.
Globalization and Commercialization: As yoga spread worldwide, it underwent significant adaptation to suit Western preferences for fitness. Yoga studios, certification programs, and yoga apparel became big industries. The commercial aspect of yoga is a noticeable change from its humble origins as a spiritual discipline.
Increased Accessibility: Traditional yoga was often reserved for monks, ascetics, and those deeply immersed in spiritual practice. Today, yoga is accessible to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
Conclusion
Yoga has evolved considerably over thousands of years, from a profound spiritual discipline to a global fitness practice. Despite these shifts, the core philosophy of yoga—seeking union, balance, and harmony—remains at the heart of all its forms. Whether practiced for mental clarity, physical well-being, or spiritual enlightenment, yoga has adapted to meet the needs of contemporary society, blending ancient wisdom with modern sensibilities.