what is yoga..?

what is yoga..?

In this hectic world, human beings have become robotic- physically, mentally and even emotionally. The modern generation is failing to follow work-life balance due to work and peer pressures. Life has become more materialistic, competitive and goal-oriented. High pressures and tensions of modern lifestyle are the main causes of psychosomatic ailments.

The good thing is recent researchers have documented that mind; the psyche plays a vital role in the majority of these psychosomatic diseases. Hence, people have now turned towards the ancient Indian science, Yoga and Ayurveda to treat these diseases with their holistic approach. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of well-being at mental, physical, social and spiritual levels and not just the absence of illness or infirmity".

In the Indian treasures like the Bhagavad Gita, it is said that ‘Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self’.

past and present Scenario YOGA

Since ancient times, the path of Yoga is followed as it enlightens and balances mind, body, and soul. The path winds back 5000 years in native India. Today, it is more popular than it was ever before. Right from superstars to sportspersons does it. Now, Yoga bestrides the continent from Washington to Hollywood. More than fifteen million Americans indulge in some form of yoga in their routine fitness regimen. Around 75% of the health clubs in the United States offer yoga classes.

On 27 September 2014, the current Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi proposed the idea of International Yoga Day during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Then, uanimously, Yoga day was declared by the UNGA and since 2015, International Day of Yoga is celebrated on 21 June every year.

Reasons Why Yoga Is Good For Everyone

Practicing yoga gives a deep sense of relaxation and helps to lose weight naturally.

Various exercises practiced in Yoga sessions helps to improve muscle tone and strength. It stretches muscles and soft tissues. In addition, it frees the joint movement and thus, improves overall flexibility of the body and posture.

Quick Facts

Yoga symbol, the swastika is derived from the Sanskrit term- Svastik which means ‘associated with well-being’.

The ‘Om’, another yoga symbol is widely found in Hindu and Tibetan philosophy. It is believed to be the first sound of the universe. It is said that this sound connects to the conscience (Ajna Chakra) or ‘third eye’ region.

As per Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is worshiped as the Supreme Lord of Yoga. He is also credited as ‘Adi Yogi’ / ‘First Yogi’ and ‘Adi Guru’ / ‘First Guru’. Also, it is believed that Shiva imparted the wisdom of Yoga to the seven saints (Saptha Rishis).

During the 2nd century BCR, Maharishi Patanjali was a saint. He is well- known for his ‘Patanjali Yoga Sutra’, a treatise on Yoga.

The first known appearance of the word ‘Yoga’ is found in the Katha Upanishad, the most widely studied Upanishads. It is composed in around fourth to third century BCE.

In the 17th century, Max Müller and others translated Katha Upanishad into Persian and its copies were translated into Latin and then distributed in Europe.

In the West, Swami Vivekananda is known for being the proponent of Yoga as he introduced the Indian philosophies of Yoga and Vedanta to the Western world.

Paramahansa Yogananda, an Indian yogi taught Kriya Yoga to over millions of people around the world.

In the modern world, B K S Iyengar was considered to be the principal of the yoga teachers.

In 2015, June 21, which was the inception of Yoga Day, the Indian Postal Service released a stamp of yoga. It showcased a seated yogi outline with the Anjali Mudra overhead.

Conclusion

Yoga encompasses various aspects such as purification and peace of mind and body, higher energy levels, etc. So, with Yoga, de-stress and enjoy peace of mind, body, and soul. Daily practicing Yoga reconnects with the inner peace and replenishes the energies.

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