Yoga , an ancient and holistic discipline has been the part of human lives from thousands of years, and from its origin it has served human life in many ways. It has evolved from with the passing time and has been adapted in modern lives in various forms while maintaining its core purpose “To Promote Harmony within Individuals and Universe” . Yoga has been instrumental in providing health, Spirituality, peaceful mind and some mesmerising experiences, sometimes beyond imagination. Yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word meaning as “Yog” ,”Yuti” or Union. Yoga is believed to be originated in pre-Vedic era in India over 5000 years ago. Archaeological findings suggests that yoga used to be practiced in various forms during this time and first well-structured references are found in ancient religious book Vedas where written texts are available describing the Yoga. And as the Yoga evolved with time , more and more structured and well scripted texts were written and are available in Upanishads. These Texts not only explains the metaphysical aspects of yoga but also described concept of Pran and Brahma(The Universe) and how to practice yoga to achieve the ultimate control on body(Kaya. Karma), mind(indriyan) and spirit. However, it was the sage Patanjali who provided the most systematic and enduring framework for yoga. His Yoga Sutras, composed around 400 CE, delineate the eightfold path of Ashtanga Yoga, outlining ethical guidelines, physical postures, breath control, sensory withdrawal, concentration, meditation, and ultimately, enlightenment. Patanjali’s work remains a cornerstone of classical yoga philosophy and practice. Yoga aims to provide a perfect harmony between the mind, body and soul of individual and between individual and Universe.it helps in attaining the ultimate peace within and self-awakening . Its achieved by controlling the flood of thoughts in mind which causes unrest in mind. As articulated in Patanjali’s famous aphorism, “Yoga chitta vritti nirodha” Yoga is restraining the mind-stuff from taking various forms.. .i.e when the yogi(Practitioner) practices a disciplined routine he learns to control his thoughts, emotions and behavior which enables him to lead to attain self-awareness. Spiritual advancement and emotional stability. Yoga aims to provide balance and strength to body and mind to balance emotional, spiritual and physical aspects of practitioner. it enhances strength, flexibility, and overall health through various postures (asanas). Mentally, it fosters clarity, focus, and tranquillity through breath control (pranayama) and meditation (dhyana). Spiritually, it cultivates a sense of connection with the divine or higher consciousness, promoting a deeper understanding of one’s true nature and purpose.
