Yoga is a very ancient practice that has gone through many transformations in its lifetime, most especially in the twentieth century. All the popular modern schools of yoga in the West come from famous yoga gurus in India (and some from Western yogis too!) Nowadays, there is a big focus on the physical aspects in the West, but the spiritual aspects have always traveled along with it. In creating a sense of calm and wellbeing, yoga helps you to live a more meditative life.
All the modern systems of yoga come from Patanjali, the ancient system of yoga. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras give a system of strict ethics – the ‘do’s and don’ts’ of Indian philosophy. Following the ethical system, there are physical and breathing exercises meant to bring the body to a state of optimum balance and wellbeing. As the sense of calm grows, the yogi starts to enter the three stages of meditation. These stages make up the Eight-fold Path of Yoga (also known as Ashtanga).
When yoga went to the west it grew into a mainstream activity. The religious and meditative aspects have been lost to some extent. However, yoga is a practical complementary discipline and always seeks to create wellness. Whether you choose a physically strenuous kind of yoga, or a slow and reflective one, the benefits of yoga will do their work. The aim is to create harmony in body, mind and soul, and for this physical health is key. This is why yoga deserves to be the central part of your wellness.
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