Yoga
Yoga, which originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago, is a holistic practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, along with ethical principles, philosophy, and guidance on the awareness of the self and the universe.
What is Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient practice that integrates body, mind, and spirit. While often associated with physical 'asanas' (postures), yoga is in fact an entire philosophy and way of life that can guide us towards enlightenment. At its core, yoga is about creating union (‘yog’ or ‘yuj’ meaning to yoke, or unite) within ourselves, between our thoughts and actions, and between the individual and the wider world.
The physical asanas help build strength, flexibility, and vitality, while 'pranayama' (breathwork) regulates the nervous system and supports emotional clarity. Meditation is also an essential element, helping practitioners quiet mental chatter and connect with a deeper sense of self and awareness. Through consistent practice, yoga becomes a tool for both physical health and emotional resilience, offering space for healing, reflection, and personal growth.
History
The history of yoga stretches back over 5,000 years, with its earliest roots found in the Indus Valley Civilisation of ancient India. The first significant textual references to yoga appear in the 'Vedas' - ancient Hindu scriptures composed around 1500 BCE - which speak of meditative practices and rituals aimed at spiritual connection.
As the centuries progressed, these ideas were refined in the 'Upanishads', spiritual texts that emphasised inner transformation, and introduced concepts like the 'atman' (self) and 'Brahman' (ultimate reality). Around 400 BCE, the sage Patanjali compiled the 'Yoga Sutras', a foundational text that outlined the Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga - a systematic approach to achieving mental clarity and spiritual liberation:
1. Yama – Ethical restraints (how we relate to others)
2. Niyama – Personal observances (how we relate to ourselves)
3. Asana – Physical postures
4. Pranayama – Breath control
5. Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the senses
6. Dharana – Concentration
7. Dhyana – Meditation
8. Samadhi – Enlightenment or absorption
Styles of Yoga - A Timeline:
400 BCE – Raja Yoga / Ashtanga Yoga / Classical Yoga:
800–1300 CE – Post-Classical / Tantra Yoga:
11th–13th century - Hatha Yoga:
Late 1800s–Early 1900s - Jnana Yoga (wisdom), Bhakti (devotion), and Raja Yoga (Ashtanga):
1920s–1930s - Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga (Pattabhi Jois), Iyengar Yoga (B.K.S. Iyengar):
1940s–1980s - 26 & 2 (Hot) Yoga, Sivananda Yoga, Power Yoga:
1990s–Today - Vinyasa Flow, Yin Yoga, Resorative Yoga, Kundalini, Yoga, Ariel Yoga, Acro Yoga, Trauma-Informed Yoga…
_____________________________
