The practice of Yoga is believed to have started with the very dawn of civilization. The science of yoga has its origin thousands of years ago, long before the first religions or belief systems were born.
Yoga is essentially a spiritual discipline based on an extremely subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between body, mind and soul. It is an art and science of healthy living. The word ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj’, meaning ‘to join’ or ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite’. As per Yogic scriptures the practice of Yoga leads to the union of individual consciousness with that of the Universal Consciousness, indicating a perfect harmony between the body, mind and spirit.
According to modern scientists, everything in the universe is just a manifestation of the same quantum firmament. One who experiences this oneness of existence is said to be in yoga, and is termed as a yogi, having attained to a state of freedom referred to as mukti, nirvana or moksha. Thus the aim of Yoga is Self-realization, to overcome all kinds of sufferings leading to ‘the state of liberation’ (Moksha) or ‘freedom’ (Kaivalya).
Living with freedom in all walks of life, health and harmony shall be the main objectives of Yoga practice.
“Yoga” also refers to an inner science comprising of a variety of methods through which human beings can realize this union and achieve mastery over their destiny. Yoga as an ancient system offers wisdom, techniques and practices to support physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. From the physical postures (asana) and breathing techniques (pranayama), to guidance on living (yama & niyama) and meditation, the aim of different yoga processes is to help a person achieve harmony and greater understanding of themselves and life.
Yoga is a science that can be effectively applied whether the practitioner ‘believes’ in the philosophy of yoga or not. It offers a wide range of tools and practices that are accessible to all, and is not limited to any age, sex, race, or religion.
Essentially, yoga is a process of self-realisation and discovering the true nature of things. While it may appear that yoga is a group activity, the journey itself is an individual one. And as such, everyone will have their own unique level of understanding as they progress along the path of yoga.