Yoga History

Yoga is more than mastering postures and increasing your flexibility and strength.

"The traditional purpose of Yoga, however, has always been to bring about a profound transformation in the person through the transcendence of the ego," (Feuerstein 3)

In Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism the word yoga means "spiritual discipline". People often associate yoga with the postures and stances that make up the physical activity of the exercise, but after closer inspection it becomes clear that there are many more aspects of yoga. It is an activity that has been practiced for thousands of years, and it is something that has evolved and changed overtime. Different factions of yoga have developed since its conception.

The exact history and origins of yoga is uncertain; however, there are pieces that have been connected and allow us to make some conclusions. It is known that yoga originated from the East. The earliest signs of yoga appear in ancient Shamanism. Evidence of yoga postures were found on artifacts that date back to 3000 B.C. Evidence of yoga is found in the oldest-existing text, Rig-Veda. Rig-Veda is a composition of hymns. Topics of the Rig-Veda include prayer, divine harmony, and greater being.

"The primary goal of shamanism was to heal members of the community and act as religious mediators," ("History of Yoga" 1).

Yoga originally focused on applying and understanding the world. Its focus later changed to the self. Self-enlightenment became the ultimate goal.

It was not until the sixth century B.C. that the poses and meditation became a critical element. They were implimented by Buddhist teachings.

Source: http://iml.jou.ufl.edu/projects/fall05/levy/history.html

Introduction to Yoga

Yoga is a 5000-year-old Indian philosophy that combines exercise, breathing, diet, relaxation and meditation. It is a combination of physical and mental disciplines which make the body stronger and healthier and the mind calmer and more controlled, helping towards self-realisation. It emphasizes the relationship of body, mind and breath, the synchronisation of the breath and movement, the use of preparation, counter pose, sequences of linked postures and modification of postures to suit individual needs.

Yoga is the art of skilful living. It has many aspects. It is about getting to know yourself. Integrating the many aspects of ourselves and putting us in control of our minds; the effects are holistic, bringing about health awareness and a change of attitude towards ourselves and the world around us. We cannot practise Yoga without changes happening within ourselves, becoming more aware that it influences our life and the way we live.

The practice can be low impact but it can also be very demanding. The beauty of Yoga is that it is accessible to everyone, as the session can be adapted to each person's level of fitness or state of health. For those who love Yoga, it becomes a way of life. Whether your path is physical, mental, spiritual or a combination, yoga is for everyone.

Most Yoga classes are composed of people with all abilities; these are termed as 'mixed ability' classes. There are classes especially for beginners, intermediate and advanced practitioners, enabling teachers to grade their students and plan the lesson accordingly.

Source: http://www.bwywestmidlands.org.uk/about-introduction.htm