What do you think of when you hear the word “Yoga”? Stretches, exercises, and a flexible body?
In these modern times, where people barely get time to indulge in any kind of physical activity, many people are seen heading towards their yoga classes for a stress-release session.
Have you ever wondered how yoga helps in your mental, spiritual, and physical well-being?
Yoga is a spiritual discipline that helps in achieving harmony between the soul and the mind. It helps in cleaning the dirt off the mind while also making the body physically fit. Let us see how the evolution of Yoga from ancient times has made its way into the modern world.
Evolution of Yoga Over the Ages
The evolution of Yoga dates back to the dawn of civilization. The Yogic lore identifies Lord Shiva as the first yogi, also known as Aadiyogi. According to folklore, it is believed that Lord Shiva taught Yoga to seven of his disciples, who then went in different directions to preach and impart the knowledge of Yoga in far-off areas.
However, there is no evidence of when the discipline started.
The timeline of the evolution of Yoga goes as follows:
- Pre-Vedic Period: Dates back to 2700 BC, historians found many fossils and seals in the Indus-Saraswati valley civilization that show traces of people performing Yoga. This indicates that the practice of Yoga may have started at a very early stage.
- Vedic Period: The word “Yoga” appeared in the Rig Veda in 1500 BC. The art of controlling one’s breath, which is a primary component of Yoga-asana, was mentioned in the Atharva Veda (900 BC). Not only this, but it is also important to note that the Vedic priests lived simple lives and performed yajnas or sacrifices using early forms of Yoga poses. These teachings were passed down orally, forming a significant part of the evolution of Yoga.
- Pre-Classical Period: During this period, the Upanishads played an important role. The Upanishads explained the deeper meaning of the mind-body connection and the meaning of life. It is also important to note that out of the 108 Upanishads, 20 focused on Yoga. There are mentions of techniques such as pranayama or breathing, pratyahara or sense control, sound, and meditation. Yoga was now practiced as Jnana Yoga (knowledge) and Karma Yoga (action), continuing the evolution of Yoga through philosophical depth.
- Classical Period: You can also find the mention of Yoga in the Classical period. During this period, Patanjali wrote the Yoga Sutras, which are organized into eight steps known as Raja Yoga. During this period, we can also find Yoga spread into Buddhism and Jainism as Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira stressed the importance of meditation for spiritual freedom. The Bhagavad Gita also spoke of Karma, Jnana, and Bhakti Yoga and described Yoga as a balance, contributing to the systematic evolution of Yoga.
- Post-Classical Period: During this period, many great teachers like Purandara Dasa, Shankaracharya, and Meera Bai spread messages about Yoga through teaching, poetry, and devotion. In this context, it is also important to note that Hatha Yoga focused on breath and postures, and formed the basis of modern Yoga. The evolution of Yoga at this stage emphasized physical discipline along with spiritual growth.
Modern Period: As time passed, we saw Yoga finding acceptance among the masses. Swami Vivekananda introduced Yoga to the West. There are other famous yogis like Pattabhi Jois, B.K.S. Iyengar, and Paramhansa Yogananda who helped spread the different Yoga styles such as Bhakti, Hatha, and Vedanta Yoga. The global popularity today is a direct result of the widespread evolution of Yoga across cultures.
How is Modern Yoga Different from Ancient Yoga?
Yoga has always been a journey of connection between individuals and the world around them. In ancient times, Yoga was considered to be a holistic path to inner harmony, focusing on breath, mindfulness, and the unification of body, mind, and spirit.
In today’s world, Yoga still continues to evolve. Modern practitioners often begin with Asanas that help improve flexibility and strength, thereby improving overall health. Owing to its several benefits, Yoga is gaining immense popularity across the globe, encouraging people from all walks of life to resort to it.
Moreover, there is a growing interest in the deeper aspects of Yoga that transcend beyond the physical benefits. Today’s Yoga practices blend ancient wisdom with contemporary needs, thereby continuing the evolution of Yoga in meaningful ways.
Conclusion
Yoga, rooted in ancient wisdom, has gracefully adapted to the needs of the modern world. While its spiritual and philosophical essence remains intact, it now serves as both a path to inner peace and a means of physical well-being.
From sacred texts and sages to studio classes and global movements, yoga continues to bridge the past and present. In a fast-paced world, it offers a timeless practice for balance, healing, and connection—reminding us that the evolution of Yoga is not just about history, but also about its enduring relevance in our lives today.