history of yoga assignment

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Full History of Yoga (Origin, Evolution, Development With Timeline)

Yoga, a word that resonates with serenity, balance, and well-being, finds its origins in the mystical land of ancient India. It is a practice that has not only withstood the test of time but has also evolved and flourished, spreading its wisdom far beyond its birthplace.

Here, we will know about the history of yoga, rewinding back thousands of years to discover yoga in ancient India to modern times. We will unravel the threads of knowledge woven by ancient yoga gurus and philosophers, exploring the sacred texts that laid the foundation of yoga. 

From the Vedas and Upanishads to the profound insights of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras , we will dive deep into the wisdom and teachings that have shaped yoga into what it is today. So, let’s get started and know everything about the history, origin, development, and evolution of yoga. 

What is Yoga?

Yoga is a holistic practice that originated in ancient India and encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. It is a systematic approach to achieving harmony and balance within oneself and with the surrounding world. 

While commonly known for its physical postures, yoga extends beyond just the physical aspect and includes breathing techniques, meditation , ethical principles, and self-awareness practices.

At its core, yoga aims to unite the body, mind, and spirit, promoting overall well-being and self-realization. It provides a pathway to self-discovery, inner peace, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the interconnectedness of all things.

Meaning of Yoga Word

The word “yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root “yuj,” which means “to join” or “to unite.” It signifies the union of the individual consciousness with the universal consciousness, often referred to as self-realization or enlightenment.

Suggested Reading:  Different Definitions of Yoga (From 15+ Scriptures & Roots of Yoga)

Objective of Yoga in Modern Times

In modern times, yoga has gained immense popularity and has become a significant practice worldwide. Here are some of the primary reasons behind its popularity:

1. Physical and Mental Well-being: 

One of the key reasons for the popularity of yoga is its holistic approach to health and well-being. Yoga offers a wide range of physical benefits, such as improved flexibility, strength, and posture. 

It also promotes mental well-being by reducing stress, anxiety , and depression . As people strive for a healthier and more balanced lifestyle, yoga has become a go-to practice.

2. Stress Reduction and Mindfulness:  

In today’s fast-paced and stressful world, people are turning to yoga as a means to find inner peace and reduce stress. 

The combination of physical postures, breath control, and meditation in yoga helps individuals cultivate mindfulness, increase self-awareness, and manage their emotions effectively.

3. Fitness and Weight Loss: 

Yoga is recognized as an effective form of exercise that promotes overall fitness. Many yoga styles, such as Power Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga , offer dynamic and challenging sequences that help individuals burn calories, build muscle tone, and improve cardiovascular health. Yoga has also been embraced as a supportive practice for weight loss and body toning.

4. Cultural Appreciation and Connection: 

Yoga has deep roots in Indian culture and philosophy. As people embrace yoga, they also develop an appreciation for the rich heritage and traditions associated with it. 

Practicing yoga provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with ancient wisdom, spirituality , and a sense of belonging to a global community of yoga practitioners.

5. Accessibility and Inclusivity: 

Yoga is known for its inclusive nature, welcoming people of all ages, body types, and fitness levels. It doesn’t require expensive equipment or specialized training, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals. 

This inclusivity has contributed to its popularity and allowed more people to experience its benefits.

6. Integration into Mainstream Culture: 

Yoga has permeated various aspects of modern culture, including fitness centers, wellness retreats, schools, workplaces, and even popular media.

It is often incorporated into wellness programs, offered as a form of therapy, and integrated into complementary medicine practices. The integration of yoga into mainstream culture has further fueled its popularity.

Must Read: Who is Adiyogi? The First Yogi and Source of Yoga

The Origin of Yoga

Yoga’s origin is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual heritage of ancient India. It developed over thousands of years through the contributions of various sages, teachers, and philosophical traditions. 

The origin of yoga in India reflects its deep connection to the spiritual and philosophical traditions of ancient times. It evolved as a means for individuals to attain self-realization, inner harmony, and spiritual growth. 

Today, yoga has spread globally and is practiced by millions of people, embracing its physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions as a path to well-being and self-discovery.

History of Yoga in India (And Its Development)

Let’s know about the Indian history of yoga in depth:

1. Indus Valley Civilization: 

The Indus Valley Civilization, which thrived around 3000 to 1500 BCE in what is now modern-day Pakistan and northwestern India, provides some of the earliest archaeological evidence of yogic practices. 

Seals and artifacts discovered from this civilization depict figures in yogic-like postures, suggesting the existence of early forms of yoga.

2. Vedic Period:  

The Vedic period, spanning from around 1500 to 500 BCE, marked the emergence of the Vedas, the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. 

The Vedas contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical teachings, which laid the foundation for the philosophical aspects of yoga. Elements of yoga, such as breath control (pranayama) and meditation (dhyana), can be found in the Vedic texts.

3. Upanishads and Yoga Philosophy: 

The Upanishads, a collection of ancient philosophical texts, further expanded the understanding of yoga. These texts explored concepts such as the nature of the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) and emphasized the importance of self-realization and spiritual liberation through various practices, including meditation and self-discipline.

4. Bhagavad Gita : 

The Bhagavad Gita, a revered Hindu scripture, contains a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, where yoga is presented as a path to spiritual enlightenment and self-realization. 

The Gita explains different paths of yoga, including Karma Yoga (the path of selfless action), Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion), and Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge).

5. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras :

In the 2nd century BCE, the sage Patanjali compiled the Yoga Sutras, which provided a systematic and comprehensive framework for the philosophy and practices of yoga. 

The Yoga Sutras outlined the eight limbs of yoga (Ashtanga Yoga), including ethical principles, physical postures, breath control, and meditation, guiding practitioners on the path of self-realization.

6. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika: 

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika is a medieval text attributed to Swami Svatmarama, which focuses on Hatha Yoga practices. It covers various asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breath control), mudras (gestures), and bandhas (energy locks), providing guidance for achieving physical purification and spiritual awakening.

7. The Shiva Samhita: 

The Shiva Samhita is a classical text that emphasizes the teachings of Lord Shiva on yoga and spiritual practices. It delves into the concepts of Kundalini, the chakras (energy centers), and the techniques for awakening and controlling the vital energy within the body.

8. Yogic Schools and Traditions: 

Over time, various schools and traditions of yoga emerged, each with its own practices, philosophies, and goals. These include: 

• Kundalini Yoga
• Bhakti Yoga
• Jnana Yoga 

Each tradition emphasizes different aspects of yoga, such as physical postures, breath control, meditation, devotion, or knowledge.

9. Krishnamacharya:

Krishnamacharya, also known as Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya , was a highly influential figure in the field of yoga. He is often referred to as the “father of modern yoga” due to his significant contributions to reviving and popularizing yoga in the 20th century. 

Krishnamacharya’s teachings and innovations have had a profound impact on the practice and understanding of yoga worldwide. 

One of Krishnamacharya’s key roles was as a teacher and mentor. He had a deep knowledge of yoga philosophy, scriptures, and therapeutic practices. He tailored his teachings to his students’ individual needs and capabilities, emphasizing the importance of a personalized approach to yoga practice. 

This approach laid the foundation for what is now known as “Viniyoga,” a method of adapting yoga to the unique requirements of each practitioner.

Krishnamacharya’s teachings attracted a diverse range of students, including some who would go on to become influential yoga teachers themselves. Notably, he taught B.K.S. Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois, and his son T.K.V. Desikachar, who played instrumental roles in spreading Krishnamacharya’s teachings to the world. Through his students, Krishnamacharya’s legacy continued to flourish, shaping various styles and lineages of yoga.

Also read: 18 Life-Changing Bhagavad Gita Shlokas (Verses) With Meaning and Lessons

10. Other Influential Figures: 

Other influential yoga figures include Paramahansa Yogananda , BKS Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois, and T.K.V. Desikachar.

Paramahansa Yogananda was a spiritual teacher and author who introduced the teachings of yoga and meditation to the West. His book, “Autobiography of a Yogi,” became a seminal work on yoga philosophy and spirituality. 

B.K.S. Iyengar developed Iyengar Yoga, a style known for its emphasis on precise alignment and the use of props to support the practice. His teachings have had a profound impact on the therapeutic applications of yoga. 

Pattabhi Jois popularized Ashtanga Yoga, a dynamic and physically demanding practice that follows a specific sequence of postures.

T.K.V. Desikachar played a crucial role in spreading his father’s teachings, particularly through the development of Viniyoga, a personalized and adaptable approach to yoga. 

11. Modern Yoga Practices and Adaptations:

Integration into Mainstream Culture : In recent decades, yoga has become increasingly integrated into mainstream culture, with yoga studios, classes, and workshops widely available.

Diversification of Yoga Styles : Various yoga styles have emerged to cater to different preferences and needs. These include Vinyasa Yoga , Power Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Yin Yoga, and more.

Scientific Research and Health Benefit s: Modern scientific research has shed light on the health benefits of yoga, leading to its integration into healthcare settings, wellness programs, and therapeutic practices.

History of Yoga: Timeline

Here’s a timeline highlighting the major periods and developments in the history of yoga:

Philosophical and Spiritual Roots of Yoga

The philosophical and spiritual roots of yoga delve deep into ancient Indian wisdom and offer profound insights into the nature of the mind, body, and consciousness. 

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, in particular, provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and practicing yoga. 

Yoga, in its essence, goes beyond physical postures and exercises. It encompasses a holistic approach to life that integrates the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual. The origin of yoga can be traced back to Patanjali , an ancient sage who compiled the Yoga Sutras.

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is a foundational text that outlines the philosophy and practices of classical yoga. It consists of 196 aphorisms (sutras) divided into four chapters (padas), providing a systematic guide for the journey of self-realization.

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras offer insights into the nature of the mind (chitta) and its fluctuations (vrittis), identifying them as the cause of suffering and discontent. The sutras propose the practice of yoga as a means to attain a state of inner stillness and liberation from these mental fluctuations.

Eight Limbs of Yoga

The Yoga Sutras describe the eight limbs of yoga (Ashtanga Yoga), which form a comprehensive path towards self-realization.

• Yamas : Ethical principles and restraints towards oneself and others.
• Niyamas : Personal observances and disciplines.
• Asanas : Physical postures to cultivate strength, flexibility, and balance.
• Pranayama : Breath control techniques to regulate and expand vital energy.
• Pratyahara : Withdrawal of the senses from external distractions.
• Dharana : Concentration and focus on a single point or object.
• Dhyana : Meditation, the continuous flow of awareness.
• Samadhi : State of oneness, ultimate absorption, and realization of the self.

Yoga’s Journey to the West

Yoga spread from India to plenty of other countries and gained popularity outside of its traditional roots in India. This phenomenon began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and gained momentum in the following decades. 

1. Swami Vivekananda’s Influence

One of the earliest figures to introduce yoga to the Western world was Swami Vivekananda, an Indian spiritual leader. He delivered a series of lectures on yoga and Hindu philosophy at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893. His teachings created a significant impact and generated interest in yoga as a spiritual and philosophical practice.

2. Theosophical Society and Madame Blavatsky

The Theosophical Society, founded in the late 19th century, played a crucial role in promoting Eastern philosophies and spiritual practices in the West. Figures like Helena Petrovna Blavatsky and Annie Besant popularized yoga and its concepts through their writings and lectures.

3. Early Yoga Pioneers

Several pioneers helped establish yoga in the West during the early 20th century. Notable figures include Paramahansa Yogananda, who introduced Kriya Yoga through his book “Autobiography of a Yogi,” and Sri Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, who taught yoga in India and later influenced renowned Western yoga teachers.

4. Yoga’s Integration with Physical Fitness 

In the mid-20th century, yoga started to become associated with physical fitness and health benefits. Influential figures like Indra Devi, Krishnamacharya and his disciples B.K.S. Iyengar, and Pattabhi Jois introduced more forms of yoga.

5. Popularization in Pop Culture and Media

Yoga gained further visibility through popular culture, films, and media representations. The Beatles’ visit to an ashram in India in 1968 drew attention to transcendental meditation and yoga. Numerous books, magazines, and television shows began featuring yoga, leading to a broader audience.

6. Yoga Studios and Teachers

In the late 20th century, dedicated yoga studios and teachers started emerging in the West. Teachers like Bikram Choudhury, Rodney Yee, and Shiva Rea gained popularity and attracted a significant following. 

Different yoga styles and approaches became accessible to people seeking physical, mental , and spiritual well-being.

7. Global Yoga Boom

In recent decades, yoga has experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity and acceptance worldwide. Yoga festivals, retreats, teacher training programs, and online yoga platforms have contributed to its widespread reach. Today, yoga is practiced by millions of people globally and has become an integral part of wellness culture.

Also read: Who is Yogi and Who is Yogini? Differences & Meaning

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FAQs Related to History and Development of Yoga

Yoga has evolved over thousands of years through the contributions of various sages, teachers, and philosophical traditions in India. It is difficult to attribute the founder of yoga to a single individual, as it developed organically and was passed down through generations.  However, there are several influential figures who played significant roles in its evolution, including:  – Patanjali – Sage Vyasa – Swami Vivekananda – Paramahansa Yogananda – Tirumalai Krishnamacharya – B.K.S. Iyengar – Pattabhi Jois – T.K.V. Desikachar – Sivananda Saraswati

Yoga originated in ancient India, with its roots dating back thousands of years. It developed as a holistic practice within the cultural, spiritual, and philosophical traditions of the Indian civilization.

Yoga is believed to have originated around 5,000 to 6,000 years ago. The earliest mentions of yoga can be found in ancient texts such as the Rigveda, which dates back over 3,500 years.

The ancient texts that provide insights into yoga include the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. These texts explore various aspects of yoga, its philosophy, practices, and spiritual principles.

Yoga has evolved and adapted to different periods and cultures. It has experienced developments and refinements through the contributions of various schools, teachers, and practitioners. While preserving its core principles, different styles and approaches of yoga have emerged, catering to diverse needs and preferences.

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A brief history of yoga: Through the ages

Wherever you go today, you hear people talking about the multiple benefits of  yoga  and attesting to its indispensability in daily life. It is no surprise, considering the significance of  yoga  in the resolution of physical and mental problems all over the world today.  When you hear the word  ‘yoga’ , chances are that an image of people twisting in, seemingly, impossible poses may pop into your head. Perhaps you never dreamt that any non-acrobat could bend and twist like that!

While  yoga asanas   are immensely effective and helpful, yoga is more than the  asanas  or poses it is known for today. It is, also, not just a passing modern fad that evolved over the last few decades. The fact is that it dates back as far as a few millenniums! Yes, incredible as it may sound, yoga goes way back to BC times. So, it is no wonder that so many around the world are attracted to such a time-tested practice.

But, let’s start at the beginning with the very meaning of  yoga . What is  yoga?  What do we mean when we say it is more than  asanas?  And from when has it been practiced?

What is  yoga?

The word  yoga  was derived from the Sanskrit word  yuj  which means ‘to join’ or ‘to unite’. This union is not, merely, about your nose touching your knees as you bend to touch your toes! The  union  referred to is that of your mind with your body. You integrating with your surroundings and nature. And, finally, your individual consciousness with the universal consciousness.

Lord Shiva is considered to be the first yogi; it is believed that He disseminated his knowledge and learning to seven learned men known as the Saptarishis. They, in turn, spread this knowledge in seven different directions covering diverse regions – knowledge that humans can evolve beyond their physical limitations.

We can understand more about this once we understand how the practice of  yoga  came about. When did it start, and by whom? Let’s delve into the history of  yoga .

History of yoga

I. pre-vedic and vedic period.

In the hierarchy of  Vedic  knowledge, there are four  Vedas  –  Rigveda, Samveda, Yajurveda and Atharvaveda . These are followed by four  Upavedas  or sub- Vedas  –  Ayurveda, Arthaveda, Dhanurveda,  and  Gandharvaveda . Further down the line are six  upangas  or components –  Shiksha, Kalpa, Vyakarana, Nirukta, Chandas , and  Jyotisha . These are further classified into six sub-components –  Nyaya, Vaiseshika, Sankhya, Mimansa, Vedanta , and  Yoga .

The earliest recorded mention of the word ‘ yoga ’ is in the ancient Indian text, the  Rig Veda  – this body of knowledge dates back to around 1500 BC! In the  Atharva Veda , again (dating to 1200-1000 BC), there is a mention of the importance of the   control of breath. It is difficult to pinpoint exact dates because in the beginning, the  Vedas  were, only, orally passed on from one generation to another. Written records came much later.

However, even before this, in the Indus-Saraswati civilization (dating to 2700 BC),     several seals and fossils have been found, with figures performing  Yoga Sadhana . This suggests that  yoga  was known and practiced even in those early stages of civilization.

II. Pre-classical period

The  Upanishads  took birth in this era. They explain the meaning hidden in the Vedas, elaborating on the workings of the mind and spirit through personal teachings. They espouse meditation and mantra recitation towards the ultimate goal of attaining enlightenment. Out of the 108  Upanishads , there are 20  yoga Upanishads . These talk about different yogic techniques, like  pranayama   (breathing exercise)  and  pratyahara  (withdrawal of the senses), breathing exercises, sound, and meditation.

III. Classical period (500 BC to 800 AD)

A) Lord  Mahavira  and Lord  Buddha’s  teachings formed the early basis for  Yoga Sadhana . While Lord  Mahavira  spoke of attaining salvation and freedom through meditation, Lord  Buddha  spoke of specific postures and meditation to attain enlightenment.

B) The  Bhagavad Gita  also came into existence in this period. This text is a dialogue between Lord  Krishna  (universal consciousness) and Prince  Arjuna  (human consciousness). Here, the Lord explains the concepts of  Dharma, Karma yoga   (generous actions), Bhakti yoga (dedicated and caring actions)  and  Jnana yoga (knowledge) .

In the  Bhagavad Gita , Lord  Krishna  says,  “Samatvam Yoga Uchyate” – equanimity in  the mind is a sign of  yoga .  Yoga  is that ability to remain centered in adverse situations. Whatever takes us back to our original, joyous and harmonious nature is  yoga .

C) Some verses of the Mahabharata dating to 300-200 BC also mention terms described by Sage  Patanjali , such as  vichara  (subtle reflection), and  viveka  (discrimination). Some of the goals of  yoga  are described as the separation of self from matter, perceiving  Brahman  everywhere, entering into the  Brahman  state and uniting the individual  atman  with the universal  Brahman .

D)  Maharshi Patanjali , considered the Father of  Yoga , was the first one to systematize the practices of  yoga  in, what is believed to be, the second century BC. Through his  Yoga Sutras , he disseminated the meaning of  yoga , and the knowledge it has to offer. This yoga was called  Raja yoga . He formulated the  Astanga yoga  or the eight limbs of  yoga , which included  yamas ,  niyamas , asanas, pranayama, pratyahara,  dharana ,  dhyan , and samadhi.

• Karma yoga – the path of action or activity
• Bhakti yoga – the path of devotion
• Jnana yoga – the path of inquiry
• Raja yoga – the path of introspection
• Hatha yoga – the path of balancing the physical, mental and pranic layer in the body

Elements of  Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras  were used as part of the finger movements in  nata  dances. These were later incorporated in martial arts.

Commentaries on the  Yoga Sutras  by Veda  Vyasa  were also written at this time. Here, he has

explained the relationship between the yoga school of philosophy and the  Samkhya  philosophy, one of the six systems of Indian philosophy.

This period emphasized the importance of the mind in  yoga .

IV. Post-classical period

In this era, many sages and philosophers such as  Adi Shankaracharya  contributed to the development and continuation of  Raja Yoga  and  Jnana yoga , adopting and building upon the teachings and techniques of  yoga . With his teachings, and yogic rituals, like the  Jnana Yoga , one can achieve  Nirvana  or liberation. Additionally, meditation was also considered vital to help clear the mind.

Tulsidasa  and  Purandaradasa  also contributed to the science of yoga.  Hatha yoga  was popularized in this period. Most of the  asanas  that we practice today are part of  Hatha yoga .

V. Modern Period (1700 AD to 1900 AD)

Swami Vivekananda  was largely responsible for the spread of yoga to western societies.

Here, there was much focus on physical well-being.  Raja yoga  was further developed   by  Ramana Maharshi, Ramakrishna Paramahansa, BKS Iyengar, K Pattabhi Jois, Paramhansa Yogananda, and Vivekananda .  Yoga  spread to the West in the mid-nineteenth century.  Vedanta, Bhakti and Hatha yoga  flourished at this time.

Such was the long and illustrious journey that  yoga  undertook to reach the 21st century! It has had various contributors and undergone many changes. Despite all this, the essence of yoga remains becoming one with your  self , spirit and the world around you.

Ancient vs modern perspective

In olden times, people lived lives that were intertwined with nature. They were in their natural state and evolved in that state. There was an understanding of the symbiotic relationship between the body and the mind. That only when both are in communion are bends and twists possible. To achieve this, control of breath and self-realization are important.

The idea of using  yoga  for treatment of diseases, physical fitness and to achieve freedom from stress is a modern, and rather, superficial perspective. In ancient times,  yoga  was not just a means to remove diseases. For instance, the emphasis on hygiene and cleanliness was present in ancient times as well. But, this did not refer to only brushing, washing and general morning ablutions. It included keeping your mind, and by extension, your thought process also, pure and clean. In other words, it led to all-round wellness.

Like a flower bud, human life has the potential to blossom fully. Blossoming of human potential to fullness is yoga. ~ Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Helping man to flourish completely is  yoga . Helping the individual potential to blossom to its fullest is  yoga . For this, all aspects of the individual – physical, mental, spiritual, intellectual, and emotional aspects have to be addressed. Just treating the body would be a symptomatic approach that will, eventually, lead to other problems not far down the road to recovery.

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More than asanas

Today, our exposure to  yoga  is largely restricted to  yoga asanas . This is why we associate  yoga  with flexibility and fitness.

Remember that people were sitting on the floor in  yoga asanas  as a matter of daily life. Today, we need to work our way into a  padmasana  or lotus pose! Correct posture and meditative state were a way of life that modern living has deprived us of. That is why poses are so popular today. But, now you know that  yoga  was not meant to be  asanas  in isolation.

Asanas  are, undoubtedly, a very essential step in the process of overall enlightenment. However, they are not the be all and end all of all that  yoga  stands for.  Asanas  are simply, ONE of the eight limbs of  yoga . They are a necessary part of the preparatory process to enable the body to enter a meditative state and sustain higher levels of energy.

Yoga  helps you realize that you are one with the universe around you i.e. your existence is not separate from the world around you. Once you attain this state of awareness, you will be liberated from the sufferings of the world, and achieve a control over your body, mind, spirit, and even, your destiny. This path to self-realization and actualization is the true aim of  yoga .

This profound spiritual meaning of  yoga  is now being recognized globally as the United Nations has named June 21st as International  Yoga  Day – a day to assign this ancient practice its rightful place as a way of life that engenders peace, harmony and universal integration.

(Based on inputs from Meena Waghray, faculty, Art of Living)

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History of Yoga

Yoga’s history has many places of obscurity and uncertainty due to its oral transmission of sacred texts and the secretive nature of its teachings. The early writings on yoga were transcribed on fragile palm leaves that were easily damaged, destroyed or lost. The development of yoga can be traced back to over 5,000 years ago, but some researchers think that yoga may be up to 10,000 years old old. Yoga’s long rich history can be divided into four main periods of innovation, practice and development.

Pre-Classical Yoga The beginnings of Yoga were developed by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India over 5,000 years ago. The word yoga was first mentioned in the oldest sacred texts, the Rig Veda. The Vedas were a collection of texts containing songs, mantras and rituals to be used by Brahmans, the Vedic priests. Yoga was slowly refined and developed by the Brahmans and Rishis (mystic seers) who documented their practices and beliefs in the upanishads , a huge work containing over 200 scriptures. The most renowned of the Yogic scriptures is the Bhagavad-Gîtâ, composed around 500 B.C.E. The Upanishads took the idea of ritual sacrifice from the Vedas and internalized it, teaching the sacrifice of the ego through self-knowledge, action ( karma yoga ) and wisdom (jnana yoga).

Classical Yoga In the pre-classical stage, yoga was a mishmash of various ideas, beliefs and techniques that often conflicted and contradicted each other. The Classical period is defined by Patanjali’s Yoga-Sûtras, the first systematic presentation of yoga. Written some time in the second century, this text describes the path of RAJA YOGA, often called "classical yoga". Patanjali organized the practice of yoga into an "eight limbed path" containing the steps and stages towards obtaining Samadhi or enlightenment. Patanjali is often considered the father of yoga and his Yoga-Sûtras still strongly influence most styles of modern yoga.

Post-Classical Yoga A few centuries after Patanjali, yoga masters created a system of practices designed to rejuvenate the body and prolong life. They rejected the teachings of the ancient Vedas and embraced the physical body as the means to achieve enlightenment. They developed Tantra Yoga , with radical techniques to cleanse the body and mind to break the knots that bind us to our physical existence. This exploration of these physical-spiritual connections and body centered practices led to the creation of what we primarily think of yoga in the West: Hatha Yoga .

Modern Period In the late 1800s and early 1900s, yoga masters began to travel to the West, attracting attention and followers. This began at the 1893 Parliament of Religions in Chicago, when Swami Vivekananda wowed the attendees with his lectures on yoga and the universality of the world’s religions. In the 1920s and 30s, Hatha Yoga was strongly promoted in India with the work of T. Krishnamacharya, Swami Sivananda and other yogis practicing Hatha Yoga. Krishnamacharya opened the first Hatha Yoga school in Mysore in 1924 and in 1936 Sivananda founded the Divine Life Society on the banks of the holy Ganges River. Krishnamacharya produced three students that would continue his legacy and increase the popularity of Hatha Yoga: B.K.S. Iyengar, T.K.V. Desikachar and Pattabhi Jois. Sivananda was a prolific author, writing over 200 books on yoga, and established nine ashrams and numerous yoga centers located around the world.

The importation of yoga to the West still continued at a trickle until Indra Devi opened her yoga studio in Hollywood in 1947. Since then, many more western and Indian teachers have become pioneers, popularizing hatha yoga and gaining millions of followers. Hatha Yoga now has many different schools or styles, all emphasizing the many different aspects of the practice.

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184 responses to “history of yoga”.

I didn’t realize how long yoga has really been around. It’s really cool, almost inspiring.

This article is deceptively incorrect by suggesting that the Indus Valley Culture is one and the same with the Vedic Culture that produced the Vedic literature. This brief overview elides and obfuscates too many things. Particularly the fact that it was the outcaste heretics from the Vedic theology, ie the Jains, Buddhists, Ajivikas and Sravakas that developed the ideas that became ‘yoga’. I’m not sure why this article privileges a Brahminical origin in the way it does. The historicity of yoga is certainly more complicated and dynamic than what is presented here. The first mention of the term ‘yoga’ in the ṛgveda. There are many places, such as: 7.82.4, 4.24.4, 5.37.5 where ‘yoga’ specifically refers to: preparing for battle, rushing into battle, fighting an enemy, and other ‘heroic-like’ deeds related to warfare. The early-Vedic period was exceptionally nomadic, which included Vedic tribes fighting against each other. The idea that Vedic people were doing ‘yoga’ in the Indus Valley Culture is preposterous.

The Jains are the Buddhists were never considered outcasts and heretics in India. You are superimposing European History onto India and think that we behave like you do. Jains and Buddhist and even Eastern Christians actually enjoyed higher Caste status within Hindu Society. Jains are incredibly revered in India today and, even if you look at the rock cut caves in Ajanta and Ellora, the Jain and Buddhist carvings are right next to the Hindu Carvings. We don’t have a culture of Heresy in the way Europe did, and we don’t have violent animosity towards groups of people with slightly differing beliefs. The Word Yoga today is still used in India to mean multiple things, for example the word Yogakshema in Malayalam means a community group or welfare society. Also, why would the vedic people not be practicing yoga? Vedic literature is the most expansive collection of literature that any civilization in the ancient world had ever produce and the Indus Valley Civilization was the most expansive and sophisticated civilization in the ancient world.

The manmade bridge that connecst India to Sri Lanka has been radio carbon dated to 7000 years old and that stone is not local to the area, that bridge as legend has it was built by lord Ram and the Vanara Sena. The Ramayana gives the exact Nakshatra of Lord Ram’s Birth, and when calculated, dates back to 7000 years ago.

Keep giving such information to us Thank you

Yoga… is AUM. It originates in that mind that ceases to associate itself with its vacillations. To look at it’s origins which do not exist is to miss what it is. We live on a planet that spins around the Sun, within a solar system within a galaxy one of many universes. Yoga is to connect with existence in its true reality. Not to dwell in the past (Karma) which does not exist. To become conscious, know the self and understand the self is in everything. Living in the past isn’t yoga. Writing about yoga isn’t yoga. The texts have been written already. Recreating yoga is not yoga. Turning yoga into a discriminatory subject isn’t yoga. Finding it’s origins isn’t yoga. Yoga is to help you realise this phenomonen we exist in. It’s to help you discover the deeper truths that you only believe in by actually placing you in them to understand it as the witnessed. Namaste

your comment on this is very intriguing. i would like to hear more on this.

Yoga is which saves us from any diseases and make us cool even sharp minded.

Amazing how you can talk about honey and not mention the beehive or the bees. Yoga is a Sanskirt word, correctly pronounced as Yog. Yoga is a Hindu practice, or a practice of “Sanatan Dharma”, to be more precise.

Not to say that anybody who wants to benefit from the practice needs to acknolwedge or even be bothered about the the religious affiliation, but when you write hundreds of words on its history without mentioning the connection, it smacks of disingenuity, something decidedly non-Yogic. And no, mention of India doesn’t count. It only serves as a calculated deception, because there is more to India than Hinduism, even if yoiu’re talking just religion.

If you’re going to be a Yogi, a good place to start is by being honest and open minded. Else it’s just a lot of twisting and turning of your muscles and joints.

Namaste Rabi. I agree with you. But also do not expect from opportunists the recognition for benefiting from features of Hindu culture. I also like the ‘honey and not mention the beehive or the bees’ analogy :)

Rabi, I completely agree with you. Yoga and Hindusim are like two sides of the same coin. One doesn’t exist without the other.

hi rabi, i wanted to ask if you could recommend any texts that would bring me into the light of the connection between yoga and hinduism. excuse my ignorance in the matter but i would like to study the topic more deeply. thank you.

rabi – Our history of yoga is drawn from the ancient scriptures of India, and none of these texts mention the words Hindu or Hinduism. That is because the Vedas and Upanishads are the foundation for both yoga and Hinduism. They are linked and share a common history and culture, but they are not part of each other.

I’m saddened to read that you think we are intentionally being deceptive and dishonest with what we write here. We respect your opinion, but please take your judgements somewhere else.

Timothy, A history of…lets just say gospels…without mentioning Christianity? Vedas and Upanishads are more central to Hinduism than gospels are to Christianity. I grew up chanting Vedas and reading Vagvat Geeta (Upanishad) to my blind grandfather . Hinduism *is* Vedas+Upanishads and then a few other things.

Anyway, you’ve settled on a narrative common in this part of the world that I dare not attempt to alter, so enough on this. Yoga is a gift that anybody can enjoy with a dose of any narrative that makes it palatable.

I may be an anomaly, because I have shamelessly adopted many western and even christian views/traditions that I like. My family celebrates the spirit of Christmas, enjoys good gospel singing, and hunts for eggs during Easter.

Rabi, it’s really so sad to know that you actually don’t know anything about Hinduism and Vedas. Can’t you see?? You even spelled “BHAGAVAD GITA” as ” Vagvat Geeta” and you’re saying that you’ve been reading all vedas and upanishads to your blind grandfather since childhood. Knowing some Sanskrit quotes doesn’t show that you have been into vedas and Yoga. It’s time that you should really practice doing yoga and notice the changes in your current life . Yoga is everything and it’s everywhere..

Yoga is as old as the God’s themselves. It is a knowledge which was given by Lord Shiva himself to Parvati when she asked him how would humans find liberation from the cycle of birth & death. Siva Samhita is a treatise of his answer in dialogue form between Shiva & Parvati. Hence, I humbly submit that dating Yoga according to our prsent day Calender may be futile. Please add to my knowledge if what I have said is not correct or erroneous. In quest of the Truth, Kamini,

Hii….. Yoga is very important for us. Always keep smiling 💞😍😍😍💞

Kamini, The date of origin is not what’s being discussed here, but the roots.

However, if you are willing to consider that religious texts (in written form) have author(s) that conceived (or collected) them at some point, you will find that there are various estimates of Shiva Samhita’s date of writing, none going back further than 1500 BCE.

You do, curiously, illustrate my point, by mentioning Shiva and Parvati. Shiva makes up the trio of divinity in Hinduism.

The point of my comments is the fact that Yoga is entirely a Hindu pratice (by origin), in that it is a tradition inspired by and contained in Hindu philosopy…and carried forward by Hindus alone until recent times.

Sure, the exact label “Hinduism” is of more recent origin, but it is the term available to us today to describes the same old belief system in which Yoga originated. Therefore, to say Yoga did not originate in Hinduism is a feeble play on words. To fail to mention its Hindu origin while telling its history is to start new yogis on an ignorant path.

I will have a lot of respect for anyboy or any publication that is honest and open-minded enough to use Shiva or any other Hindu symbol as an icon next to a discussion of yoga, instead of having a chic meditating Buddha in Lotus position, a misleading, but more tolerated symbol of eastern relgion/philosophy in the west. A truth, however unomfortable, remains the truth. By suppressing it, you only subtract from the true meaning of yoga.

calmini – Yes, the historic dating of yoga is quite vague based on what we know, and is just an intelligent guess. The dates are given to give context and a sequence to the unfolding of the yoga tradition.

rabi – Yoga and Hinduism share the same common roots, but that does not mean that “Yoga is entirely a Hindu practice.” Your analogy of the Gospels and Christianity is flawed because Christianity existed prior to the writing of the Gospels. You cannot say that Hinduism existed prior to the Vedas. Also many of the early Christian texts are also intertwined with the Jewish texts, which according to your logic would make Christianity an entirely Jewish practice.

Timothy, I acknowledge the depth of your belief on this topic, so I have nothing left to say.

As a testimony to the complexiity of human thought, personal as well as professional practice of Yoga can coexist with wholesale diminutive and derogatory view of the religion that originated and carried it for centuires.

This is my purely personal and totally arguable explanation for the increasing necessity for distancing of Yoga from Hinduism as the practice gets to the larger masses in the West. Branding is after all not an exercise in brutal and awkward truth.

If anybody is interested in learning of the roots of Yoga, I encourage them to look further than glib explanations (developed over time by many, to be fair; this is nothing recent) that serve as much to obfuscate as much to illuminate. Wikipedia is not a bad start.

This is the last comment, I promise, and I end with this Sanskrit quote:

विषादप्यमृतं ग्राह्यं अमेध्यादपि काञ्चनम्। अमित्रादपि सद्वृत्तं स्त्रीरत्नं दुष्कुलादपि॥

Elixir of life is to be accepted even if comes from poison, a piece of gold is to be accepted even from impurity. A good conduct is to be learnt even from an enemy and a good lady is to be accepted even from a bad community.

Ha, did I just reinforce the perception I deplored? Let me try a different one (disclaimer: the crude translation is not mine): अयं निà¤: परो वेति गणना लघुचेतसाम्। उदारमनसानां तु वसुधैव कुटुंबकम्॥ This is mine or (somebody) else”™s (is the way) narrow minded people count. But for broad minded people, (whole) earth is (like their) family.

I sincerely agree. The exact date is unknown but it all depends upon what it is. I do not say, that it does not originate from shivkaal, but there is no proof that it does either

rabi – I’m glad we are agreeing to disagree here, although I would have appreciated (and enjoyed) a logical rebuttal based on facts rather than a dogmatic viewpoint.

The yoga page in Wikipedia that you referenced states “The word [yoga] is associated with meditative practices in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism” which contradicts your belief that “Yoga is entirely a Hindu practice.”

If you are not open to discussing this topic using facts and reason then please do not continue this conversation. And if you continue to lace your posts with judgements and a patronizing tone then I’ll delete them as inappropriate.

It is not only disrespectful to disregard the history of Hinduism in yoga. What do you think Indus originated from? The Hindu people who live there. It is even more disrespectful for WHITE MAN to capitalize of our culture and educate us on what it is. What a joke you are. Typical colonial white dude speak.

Sophia – Name calling and/or putting people down is not tolerated on this website. Any further posts from you that violate our comment guidelines will be deleted.

There is no evidence that Hinduism was practiced or invented by the Indus Valley Civilization. Secondly, yoga ≠ Hinduism. Yoga is a spiritual practice (like prayer) and Hinduism is a religion. They share similar aspects and philosophies, but were developed as separate practices. If you disagree with this viewpoint please cite any modern yoga research to back up your claims. Lastly, Indian yogis brought yoga to the West, and if it were not for western interest in yoga it most likely would have died out to become just a curious footnote in India’s long history.

Why are these argumentative people on your site? What a waste of time and oxygen (on their part) to argue their nonsense. Maybe they should try something else like, get a job?

Timothy. No. 1 Hinduism is not only a religion ..it also a way of life. No.2 Yoga is a way of living life to attain ‘Moksha’ devised by gods worshiped by Hindus. No.3 Yoga is as old as humans. Practiced by first religion of earth i.e “Sanatan Dharma”, which slowly changed to Hinduism. No.4 Buddhism And Jainism were preached by sons of Hindu Kings. These religions cater to a fraction of Hinduism. No. 5 Western world is doing no good to yoga. Using for ur own benefits. Commercialized it. Yoga had survived in India, is flourishing in India and will survive till eternity. Don’t dare predict decline of Yoga in India. I am sharing these things because if you preach these things to westerners. Tell the whole story.

The reality is when you do yoga, pranayama and dhyana, you become much more aware of your body, breath and how it functions. You start understanding the workings of your mind, how desires arise, understand your otherwise compulsive behaviours. That is why it is said to lead to self-realization. Self-realization is needed for all humans because it sets them free and a great way to live life. I would normally hesitate very much to introduce a new faith to other parts of the world even if I feel my faith seems to work well. But Yoga is more of self-discovery and not based much on faith – but because of the culture and faith it arose from a particular geographical location, it probably has some colors of faith attached as part of evolution. If the western world is fully healthy and have other effective means for self-realization, there would not be a need for talking about Yoga in the west and all these altercations. So, when we start a fight, we need to understand many dimensions of the issue involved. I understand that there is a need for Yoga in the world and that is the reason it is being advocated. There is a lot of learning that the East is learning from the West too. A friend of mine once very nicely told me that the West can learn Culture from India and the Indians can learn “Attitude” from the West. I learn a lot of attitude and communication from my western customers. They are kind of Guru to me in this aspect.

If we are true practitioners of YOGA, no matter which form of Yoga we practice, we will become aware and integrated, our mind, body and soul will be one…… And at that time we rise above all that is worldly, mundane and material. At peace with everything around us, we gain knowledge of the entire universe, and realisation of this true inner knowledge, makes us rise above all debates and arguments. May we all experience peaceful bliss. Om Shanti

Very well explained

Timothy, I see great value in the Yoga practice that includes the eight limbs. I am a devote Christian and I transfer my Christian beliefs on to my Yoga practice to gain the health, mental, physical and spiritual benefits. Yoga has been redeemed for my purposes. My hope that whomever wants to claim Yoga is from their heritage be tickled and grateful that others can benefit.

Hi Vanessa. How is it that you can live both lives when it is two different religions. I am asking because the person that i am with has asked me not to do yoga as it is going against our Christian beliefs. I

Timothy Hinduism existed long before Jainism and bhudism were even formed so you cannot say Yoga is originally generated from Hinduism . This is just a conspiracy against Hinduism many foreigners fooled innocent people of India and looted us in the past still we foolishly follow the latest trends from the west .

YOGA WAS GENERATED FROM HINDUISM ITS YOUR CHOICE WHETHER YOU WANT TO PRACTICE IT OR NOT BUT PLEASE LIKE RABI MENTIONED DON’T IGNORE THE BEEHIVE AND THE BEES Peace.

Timothy, Saying Buddhism and Jainism recognize/include Yoga is different than saying they originated it.

You at least seem to agree on Vedas as having the oldest claim on Yoga.

Given your study of eastern philosophy/yoga, I would think you know that Buddhism and Jainisms are specifically called “non-Vedic religions.” That’s in essence how they differ from Hinduism, because Vedas+Upanishads *are* essentially what is today called Hinduism.

You mention vedas/brahmans/rishis in your history of Yoga. Well, Hinduism is specifically called Brahmnaic/vedic religion.

I don’t think there is anything I can present to you here in thix box to change your position. I realize that my argument is not with you really, but with a popular western view constructed over time. So, I thank you for engaging in this conversation and wish you luck. I grew up with Yoga around me, but never got into it much. I am getting started and your site is a good resource.

Rabi, I need to write a paper for a class on the origins of yoga. It seems you know your stuff. Would you mind pointing me in the right direction? Such as key ideas, great sources, and/or your own knowledge of the subject. That would be great. Thank you

Thimothy, I agree with you that the principles of yoga existed in the Indian sub-continent before Vedas and Upanishads. What we call Hinduism is an amalgamation of yogic principles; (especially of Yama and Niyamas) and the other philosophies. Hinduism has many contrasting features from yogic principles. Many ayurvedic texts openly endorses practices like the consumption of meat including beef. It is not also against polygamy as well.

Hi Timothy.

I would love to use this brief history as a handout for my teacher trainees. Do you have a pdf version to print, so that we can source your work. I think this is a nice overview for a brief section on the history portion of the training and will encourage students to take advanced trainings in history if they so desire. Thanks! Please email me privately. Jillian

sir I am happy to see the subjet of yoga . I want to know more

I would love to use your very concise yoga history excerpt as a handout for a class I’m giving ( credited of course). Let me know if that would be ok. Thanks!

Hi Maria, please send us an email from our contact page for your request.

I am wanting to know the exact date this article was published. I am having difficulty finding this information. Thanks for any clarification!

Chelsea – this current version dates back to Nov 26, 2007, but the original version of this article would have been published sometime in 2000 or 2001.

My respectful greetings to you for your website on yoga with some ideas of its origins. The discussion on whether its origins are Hindu or not is not really essential. The term Hindu originated as the designation of the people living along the banks of the river Sindhu referred to as Indus by the Greeks. The land was referred to as Hind, later India. Greek historians have written of how Alexander interacted with yogis while on his retreat along the Indus valley. So it is clear that Hindus, as a people, practiced yoga for thousands of years. The term Hinduism is a colonial construct to include the many practices and beliefs of the Hindu people. Hope this serves to clarify the historical connections. With respect.

Well said, thank you.

You are saying this article was published at 2000 ,so tell me how can I believe is any proof this article is 100℅ true ?

Great, concise article! I would love to use this article as a handout for an Introduction to Yoga Class that I’m offering. The contact page indicated that I need to leave a message on this page, but I will also send a message through the contact page. If given permission, I will ensure credit to Timothy is given. Please advise. Thanks! Have an incredible day!

I arrived at this site, hoping to begin my understanding of Yoga Practices…..I had no other preconceived ideas on the subject. It is somewhat disturbing to me as a novice, to see “masters” dispute the origins and basics of yoga. I will do further study….but today….this did help me move forward in any direction….that I can tell.

Hi Mike, I’m sorry to hear you feel discouraged upon starting your study of yoga. Please know that there are a few nationalistic Hindus who are actively trying to claim that you must be a Hindu in order to practice yoga. This is a small group of people with strong political motives and I doubt they actually practice or study yoga. I encourage you to read other scholarly discussions on the origins and history of yoga to confirm the facts presented on this website.

Namaste Timothy Burgin, I read all the connection of replies and topic of the conversation. it seems to me that you are that teacher who really have practice yoga only to practice Asan, you have to go further in that inner quest , in order to go further you will have to trace back the history. The origin of YOG, is 4 pre-Vedic literature practice. It was codified through hymns, and spiritual songs and chantings, than Varanasi born Patanjali codified in 198 Aphorism ,which was to have our own direction experience and perception of that practice ,later on it was very limited and only privileged to Brahmins and Arhankaras. so since you are so stuck on trying to teach of YOG , where you are not qualified as a teacher based on limited knowledge of yours, which is based on your ancient study on Sanskrit ,translated into english, where most expression and meaning cannot be explained, so explaining a bling person how to admire beautiful sunset , i hope you get what i am trying to say here , Namaste :-)

Unfortunately I don’t get the point you are trying to make.

Consciousness can be unfair and cruel and even sad and mad – look at the baby animals eaten by other animals higher in the food chain – or the venus fly trap and its carnivorous appetite for flys. Reality is always the same no matter how these people debate about it. Its ok to not have the same views or recollections of the past. After all, it was once us in spirit – its just we can only experience one body-mind conscious at a time (in most cases – although Im sure there are gurus who can enter other realms of the matter time space connection. Does it really matter the history of Yoga? After all do we have a past really or is it merely a matter of collected thoughts too difficult for out distracted minds. Buddhist do it and so do Hindus and so do Christians – its evolved into a self love practice not a debate topic about our feeble attempts to understand something so scared and connecting. Westerns are as much allowed to practice and teach Yoga as a scared practice as long as we leave commonly practiced entitled western directions and egos out. my two cents

You rightly say “Consciousness can be unfair and cruel and even sad and mad – look at the baby animals eaten by other animals higher in the food chain”. Like a lion need to eat lamb for it’s survival similarly west need to digest dharmic religion, Indian values into western culture,value,abrahamic beliefs to maintain it’s hegemony on the world intellectually. If you go to Wikipedia pages related to Hinduism, yogas 90% of time they quote western indologist,western intellectuals who are not even hindus to define what Hinduism is for the world.They should quote Hindus at least 50% for fair understanding of Hinduism. Who holds the final authority on matter related to Christianity. Most of the time Vatican or by the people who are Christian by faith. Similarly for Islam Muslim holds the final and most credible authority. Most authentic sources for interpreting Judaism are by Jews people. But Hindus are not allowed do that for our religion. People say that history is written by the winner.hindus were colonized by Muslims for 400 yrs and by Christians for 200ys.They wrote indian history using their colonist mindset.They tried to create a identity for hindus so that Hindus become subservient to them. As a result many of the hindus actually have become subservient to western indeas,beliefs and culture. They want approval from west. please west. Hindus are also plagued by Fake yogis,baba and fake Goodman who uses Hinduism for name, fame and power. So they dilute hindu identity to gain acceptance in west. There are 2.2 billion christens and more than 70 Christian majority country. Historically powerful countries like England,france ,spain,America have favoured Christian worldview.christinity was never colonized. There are 1.6 billion muslim and 50 muslim majority country. Islam has always been powerful. Even today very rich counties like Saudi arab,uae,Qatar are muslim nation they fund various institutes like ngos,news channel,news paper,magazine,educational institutes,gives grants for research in Islamic studies to university for proper representation of islam.Not only that they also fund left wing organization in west to undermine christinity.Jews may be less in number but historically have been very powerful and rich.at one point of time all the banking system was controlled by them and also they have sympathy of the world for what Hitler did to them. There are 1 billion Hindus but 94% live in one country. There are only 3 Hindu majority countries. There are 0 country which favor Hindu world view. Hindus are very disorganized. There are very few institutes which represents Hinduism to the world. Indian intellectual space is filled by leftwing Marxist type because the are given credibility by western intellectuals and sometime funded by them.Anyone who speaks for hindus is branded as nationalist and fascist. West is increasingly becoming more hindu on its own but they are afraid of coming out. It is like using and liking I phone but hiding the apple branding on the back of your phone because you are prejudice against apple product . In lay man term why do we do yoga, meditation bcoz we think there is a god inside oneself and by yoga we connect to that god. Jivatma with Paramatma.Now what is the difference between normal stretching, breathing exercise and yoga. Difference is concept of GOD INSIDE you and wanting to CONNECT with it. What is the difference between normal concentratition, deconcentration, relaxation, deep relaxation exercise and mediation. Difference is GOD INSIDE you and wanting to CONNECT with it. Now if you are closing your eye trying to concentrate, trying to defocus sitting in lotus position trying to relax that thing you are trying to do is not meditation if you do not believe in GOD INSIDE you and wanting to CONNECT with it. Now thing is if you believe in GOD INSIDE you and wanting to CONNECT with it you cease to be a Christine, you cease to be a Muslim, you cease to be a atheist, you cease to be a Jew, you cease to be a Buddhist.The language of Sanskrit is very difficult to translate into different languages.you can not translate jivatma.paramatma.atman,dhyan,adhyatam into other western language directly. Because language develop according to one’s lifestyle and needs and no one in the west was doing dhyan 1000 year ago or even 400 year ago. It is about being not understanding. Intellectual in west are somehow trying to digest hindu philosophy into western beliefs system. Hence emphasis of yoga not being part of Hinduism. So a Christine cannot do yoga he/she can only do stretching and breathing exercise as philosophy given in bible is not compatible with yoga. Yoga is compatible with only Hindu philosophy and to a certain extend other dharmic religion. The way that this world functions is that the dominant culture, with its misguided confidence of its imagined superiority tries to keep the lesser culture in its place. This is done by trivializing and deprecating the lesser culture and the claim that only the dominant culture is the “valid culture”. (Marxist have done this all along that their way is the only way, every other way is flawed). By denying the agency for the lesser culture to speak they follow a cultural imperialism that leads to political and economic imperialism and enslaves the lesser culture. American academia has taken over from the British the imperial project and the English speaking Indians elite have remained clueless till to date. Trying to disassociate yoga with Hinduism is symbol of cultural imperialism.

I think I finally understand your confusion of thinking yoga is a Hindu religious practice. One does not need to worship or believe in a specific god to do yoga. Yoga is the unification with Brahman/Atman (the ultimate reality underlying all phenomena). Yoga was not intended to connect with a specific deity or god like Shiva or Kali, but I can see how a Hindu would believe this and conflate yoga with their religion.

Iam preecher of yoga. agree dt Yoga is not directly connected to hinduism. but even hindu doesnt need perticular deity or god. its his/her choice. itsveryopenculter. yess its open culture not religion. someone mentioned yoga was der before vedas. vedas comes in wrriten form when writting techniques were developed. before that also vedas exists.definatly yoga is of outshoot of hinduism. krishna a hindu god r u agree? if yes den he is called as yogendra also. one of his many names. yogendra means god of yoga. so u cant separate hinduism n yoga.

hmm… would you say your thoughts are ‘homogeneous’ with regard to a Hindu view of ingestion of associated culture by western people/countries/whatever?

As someone of a culture similarly colonized by various empires, I don’t believe there is a ‘pure’ versions of anything. As you said

” Because language develop according to one’s lifestyle and needs”

The necessity of a space and time dictate what words ‘become’ to those uttering and listened; that emotional cipher of a time/space, the living language.

“Hindus are also plagued by Fake yogis,baba and fake Goodman who uses Hinduism for name, fame and power. So they dilute hindu identity to gain acceptance in west.”

Ehh, this happens to Christianity as well; I mean wasnt that the whole point of Islam, an effort to remove the self proclaimed ‘guru effect’ by having the last prophet.

Anyway, I think the anger is wasted as ‘we have to play the cards we’re dealt.’

Also I responded to you because couldn’t figure out how to make a post that wasn’t a response to an existing post lawl. Personally I’d want to cross references histories with Chinese dynasties and others for the sake of more reference frames.

History is always an Interpretation; that’s a universal constant.

Hello Varun,

I am very grateful to your elucidation on yoga and Christians practicing stretching, breathing, relaxation exercise etc.

If I may, I’d like to know your perspective on doing the ‘yoga poses’ perse. My question is, are the execution of the poses perse an act of adoration or worship? Or, if there isn’t the concept of believing in a god inside, the mere realisation of the forms has no inherent meaning on hinduism?

I wonder what Timothy Burgin thinks about the move by the student government at the University of Ottawa to ban the teaching of yoga by a young female instructor who has been offering free lessons to disabled and other students for the past 8 years or so. The student government’s reasoning being that her yoga classes were examples of “cultural appropriation”.

Hi Bill, thanks for pointing out that interesting news story. It sounds like their decision had probably more to do with the trend in North American universities to be hyper politically correct, especially since “cultural appropriation” is itself a controversial concept. If the council just wants the “students are aware of where the spiritual and cultural aspects come from” why didn’t they have a thoughtful discussion with the instructor instead of abruptly canceling the class via email?

We hindus do not mind people of other religion and culture doing yoga.what we mind is “appropriation” of our religion for commercial purpose.how can people in west separate yoga from Hinduism. Vedas,Upanishads,Bhagavad-Gîtâ these are all hindu religious text and all of them ask us to do yoga. yoga as a way of life was taught to us by krishna in Bhagavad-Gîtâ. what yo people in west do now days is not yoga but hatha yoga. Hatha yoga was given to us by lord shiva.please read the story of sage matsyendranath Matsyendrasana is dedicated to it. Hindu people have this image of lord shiva sitting on top of himalayas and doing pranayam,dhyan and yoga all day.Lord shiva is the ultimate yogi.sun salutation you do is dedicated to sun god.praying to sun god is hindu custom.warrior pose that is virabhadrasana is dedicated to an avatar of shiva. separating yoga from hinduism is like cutting a limb from the body.Hindu poeple have been doing yoga for thousands of year.it is not a weight loss program for us.you people have been doing yoga for last 40 years and want to define yoga for us.

Yoga ≠ Hinduism. Yoga is a spiritual practice (like prayer) and Hinduism is a religion. They share similar aspects and philosophies, but were developed as separate practices. One does not need to be a Hindu to practice yoga, and likewise one does not need to be a yogi to practice Hinduism.

The fact that you keep equating yoga with spiritual as opposed to Hindu being a religion is the root cause of all the confusion. The separation between spiritual domain and religious domain is purely a christian or an abrahamic concept. The fact that you are having trouble coming out of that abrahamic domain and cannot see Yoga for what it is will severely limit you in becoming a Yogi. The traditions that originated from India and the east do not have this abrahamic distinction. There is no separation between spirituality and religion (rituals, set of beliefs etc.). Nobody, especially not me, can tell you where Yoga ends and Hinduism begins. Maybe this is the reason why many followers of eastern traditions get riled up and give you the responses you do because they think you are mangling Yoga. I do not think you are doing it, but you simply cannot think outside your abrahamic framework. As long as you keep making this distinction between spirituality and religion, you might do good as a Yoga businessman (good for you), as a Yoga for money teacher for other abrahamics but you will never become a Yogi. If your intention is to teach Yoga for money, then you are doing the exactly the way it should be done in a primarily christian country. I have no issues with that. However, if your intention is to actually become a Yogi, please focus on the first 4 sutras of Patanjali and meditate upon them.

This is not judgmental, but simple , honest truth based on facts: 1. Hindus could care less about your abrahamic beliefs (christian, jeweish, marxist, atheist) as long as you want to Learn yoga, but there are certain expectations especially with respect to guru-shisya parampara (teacher-student relationship) and acknowledgement of teachers (similar to what US patent office does in US), and a conduct/framework for argument that are very closely intertwined with certain schools of philosophy in Hinduism. You simply cannot separate them and still call whatever results from that “Yoga” as separate from other Hindu schools of philosophy. 2. From a bible perspective, the practice of Yoga is simply not in conformance with what your prophet or god wants. Even the so-called spiritual concept of yoga that you attempt to distinguish is in direct contradiction what is the minimum requirement for you to be a christian i.e. allegiance to a prophet and an exclusive single god simply based on belief which is an ‘abomination’ as far a yoga is concerned. By trying to take safe harbor in the so-call spiritual side, you are essentially marketing a false promise to christian adherents and at the same time leaving yourself open to accusations from dharmic adherents. What do you hope to achieve with this?

Thank you for such a thoughtful response. The word “Hinduism” is a western concept and it was created to group a bunch of beliefs and practices together into something that made sense to a western mind and belief system. Most of my responses here have been towards Indians who take a very dogmatic approach to Hinduism and believe that Westerners are being disrespectful of their religion or culture if they practice yoga without being a Hindu, or specifically, they seem very upset if someone writes a history on yoga without mentioning their religion. So while I agree that most Hindus could “care less” some do care very deeply and are adamant on making a big stink about it. I don’t know much about nationalist Hindus to know what their agenda and rational for doing so is, but I know I have little tolerance for their small minded beliefs and unkind judgements.

I stand by my assertion that yoga and Hinduism are separate but related. I agree with your statement that it is difficult to know exactly where yoga ends and Hinduism begins–but this does not equate to them being the same. They emerged and evolved together in the same culture so it makes perfect sense that they share some philosophical ideas. From my decades of study, research and practice of yoga I have not seen, heard or read anything that says one must practice Hinduism to be a yogi. In fact, holding tightly onto strong religious and cultural beliefs will only hinder any attempts at vairagya (detachment) and thus inhibit one’s progress along the path of yoga.

FYI–I am not a Christian and most of this website’s visitors are non-Christian. I am confused as to why you are trying to make this a religious issue.

Spirituality is plagiarized version of religion. You want to enjoy all the good part of different religion but avoid certain restrictive and controversial part of a religion. It is like marriage with one person and open relationship with multiple person. If you are not happy with your marriage either you resolve your differences with your partner or break it .But some amoral people choose to CHEAT on their partner or some weak people get scared of marriage that they start believing in open relationship. Now people ask where is the proof of the god. It is in PEACE OF MIND and doing good deeds. People in west also want peace of mind but cannot get it in their abrahamic or atheistic beliefs.So they turn toward dharmic religion and find peace in it.But it goes against your abrahamic or atheistic beliefs to find peace in other religion hence west created this term “spirituality”.In the name of spirituality you can appropriate dharmic religion the way you want like west has created Christine yoga,holy yoga.west is trying to digest yoga into christinity. Hinduism was born when rig veda was conceptualized. At that time there were no abrahamic religion or other religion.There is no word for religion in Sanskrit or other Indian language,closest that come is DHARM which means your duty and right conduct.Religion is a western concept.hindu people started to behave like a religion when they feel threatened by abrahamic religion.Hindus were ruled by muslim for 400 years and by christinity for 200 years.Hinduism became religion in those 600 years of enslavement earlier it was just a way of life.christnians and muslims say that only their religion is true all other religion are false.it is unfortunate that abrahamic religion are still trying to convert people into their religion. Hindus have understood that we have to keep exerting our identity for survival. ”Vv” wrote such a beautiful answer which you clearly did not understand. Hindus do not believe in converting people. But we do believe in acknowledgement of teachers.Lord shiva is the first yogi.If you do not show gratitude to lord shiva you are not a yogi. You are stuck outside in rain..I have 10 room in my house.i use only room 1 for myself all other room are vacant. i permit you to stay inside room 3.You cannot separate room 3 from my house. The mainstream Hindu philosophy includes six systems (ṣaḍdarśana) – Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa and Vedanta.Some one following samkhya is also hindu,yoga is also hindu,Vedanta is also hindu.How do you separate Hinduism from yoga I can not understand. Buddism is separate because it has a founder,its different book,lineage of guru.Yoga has non of that. You also talk about nationalist Hindus and not knowing their agenda.Read a book called Invading the Sacred.it is available for free on internet to get a hang of it

Hi Varun, I think we just need to agree to disagree about your idea that yoga cannot be practiced separately from Hinduism. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

A Quote From varun MARCH 13, 2016 AT 2:03 PM “Spirituality is plagiarized version of religion”.

This “forum” of sort is very interesting: I know nothing about the origins of Yoga but I am a student at a local yoga studio, and I am also a Christian. I enjoy yoga very much and I feel I have benefited from it in 2 ways: 1. in a physical sense the practice of it has improved my flexibility, and 2. it appears that I am settling down and becoming more open minded about things and somehow I thiink this is partly because my teachers always display and teach the positive.

Now: with that said, I must admit that my reading of the comments on this; so called forum came to an abrupt halt after reading the comments from varun. Those comments made more sense than anything I had read regarding the subject of yoga so I am stopping here to let those comments sink into my mind. Varun’s comments on this subject is the most appropriate descrition of what I need to continue my practice of yoga. Thank you varun!

This is right. That is the ineluctable fact here. It makes me sad, too…I wasn’t going to say anything, but I have to because it isn’t about whether someone is from the West or not, but it is about people bastardizing something, it is about this secular movement of Yoga away from its roots, and it makes me cringe. In taking a second to humbly qualify myself–I am a Westerner, but I am a Yogacharya, a vedantin brahmacharya, and an M.A. candidate of a correct program in Yoga Philosophy here in the West at a private university. So, I guess you could say I know a bit about the academic as well as spiritual side of yoga. Yoga is not something you go and “do,” it is something you strive to “become.” Yoga is a profound way of life. That being said, although there are many ways to practice Yoga, they are absolutely devotional paths in nature. Hatha Yoga is modern yoga–particularly here in the West, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. If you even take, say, Surya Namaskar, it is the embodiment of the Gayatri mantra, which was originally chanted 108 times. The asan was added much later during the “Classical Yoga” period. But back to the roots: The Upanishads mention yoga, the Rig Veda are some of the earliest speculations of proto-Yoga. Lord Krishna outlines what Yoga exactly is, and it is about the highest moral and religious ideal. The Bhagavad Gita can be interpreted as Vaishnavic or Advaitic and both of those are–you guessed it–religious philosophies. Yoga is the practical application of ancient-Indo-Aryan religion. Period. People mistakenly think that the Yoga Sutras are the definitive text on Yoga and they are not. They are not meant to stand on their own because they assume that each student has proper qualifications (namely having studied/is studying the shruti). To even understand the Yoga Sutras you need to know what the Siddha Yoga lineage is first and don’t forget the Hiranyagarbha Vedic Yoga Tradition as well, because that is the quintessential aspect of what informed Patanjali.

satyam shivam sundaram, Uma

Its realy very astonished talk ; yoga is too old and contain in present and future all quality within.

Rabi, thank you! I’ve said for years yoga is spiritual and NOT of a good spirit! Let’s call yoga what it is, a beehive.

To say that yoga is not equal to hinduism is such a stupid statement. Read shiva samhita which is the most important test on hatha yoga. Hatha Yoga Pradipika another one,in both these book shiva is considered as the first yogi, both pay respect to shiva for teaching hatha yoga to humans.In ancient india yoga in physical form was mostly done by hardcore shiva devotee. do bible ask us to do yoga no.do quran ask us to do yoga no.name any other religious text that ask to do yoga. ONLY hindu religious text ask to do yoga.hindus have hundreds of religious text and all of them ask us to do yoga. Yoga sutra of patanjali is also hindu religious text. go and ask Christians,Jews,Muslims,Sikhs,Buddhist,jains,parsi do they consider Vedas,Upanishads,Bhagavad Gita,yoga sutra of patanjali,shiva samhita as religious text their answer will be NO.These are all hindu religious text,so each and every word written in it belong to hindu religion.Hatha yoga is given to us by shiva and yoga as a way of life is given to us by Krishna in bhagavad gita. Kalaripayattu an ancient martial art form which originated in india similarly game of chess,sports of kabaddi also originated in india these activities are also good for health but hindu never say that these belongs to hindu religion because they are not mention in our religious text. Problem is that there are so many fake yogis who do not care about yoga but want to sell it to westerners.They want to earn name and fame from yoga,earn money from yoga,create a cult around them or they have negative prejudice against hindu religion so they are trying to distort the history of yoga. One can not wake up a person pretending to be asleep. All form of positive emotion comes from one single source i.e GRATITUDE and gratitude comes only when you accept the truth but for that you need to develop a conscience.

Dear varun,

While you have a right to disagree with my statements, by calling my opinion “stupid” you are being disrespectful as well as not furthering a discussion on this issue. If you continue to be disrespectful you will be banned from leaving comments here.

Yogis view Shiva and other Hindu gods as mythical beings who symbolize and personify facets of higher truth. Only a Hindu would view Shiva as a literal god in the yogic texts you referenced.

From Wikipedia: Hinduism is a fusion or synthesis of various Indian cultures and traditions. Hinduism includes a diversity of ideas on spirituality and traditions, but has no ecclesiastical order, no unquestionable religious authorities, no governing body, no prophet(s) nor any binding holy book; Hindus can choose to be polytheistic, pantheistic, monotheistic, monistic, agnostic, atheistic or humanist. Hinduism emerged after the Vedic period, between 500-200 BCE and c. 300 CE, the beginning of the “Epic and Puranic” c.q. “Preclassical” period.

You have the patience of an enlightened monk in dealing with the overreacters of the internet… a true testament to the benefits of yoga. Thank you for your website, I’ve enjoyed reading it.

Thank you! I’m glad to hear you are benefiting from the site.

Hi Timothy,

I am curious to know when you wrote this article. I am planning to use this as a reference for the paper I am writing and would love to know the date so I can properly cite you.

Thanks, Kelly

The original article was written sometime in 2001. It was last updated/revised on Nov 26, 2007.

Thank you for your article, you have written it very well. It is clear and precise, yet makes you aware that the history of yoga is still very much uncertain. I am just starting out on my yoga journey and I have a lot to learn. However, having first started yoga in Vietnam I felt ‘united’ with myself and those around me, and this was without knowing the meaning of yoga. I was the only Westerner in the class and could not speak any VIetnamese, yet I felt welcomed and connected to everyone in my class. Based on the comments below and the little knowledge I have, it appears that although the history of yoga is VERY important it is not the most important thing. The most important aspect of yoga is being united your mind, body and those around you regardless of religion, race and culture. We are all the same person and should be helping one another to seek both inner and world peace. Namaste <3

it has been very interesting reading all of the comments below. it has cleared up a few queries.

that is awesome that you know so much about yoga

Yoga is started from very ancient time that you assumed. Rishi of Vedas were Aryans of middle Asia actually there were not rishi . They were just invaders and fighters They came to Indus river and defeated the residents. Vedas don’t believe in idol worship but Indus people used to worship idols of Yogis So we can say that yoga is older than Vedas And Vedic people slowly took the idea of yoga Father of yoga was actually shamans First shraman was Rishabha deva .. Who is called yogeshwara because he developed yoga. Letter Vedic people make them their god Vishnu’s avtar There a long gape in neminatha and parshva natha about 2000 years In that gape bhrahmin stole all concepts of shramans and made up a new religion called Vedic religion. Then a high level of yoga meditation and and physical balancing found in parsvanatha . Who is not bhrahmin but a Dravidian shraman .. Then we find same level of yoga in mahavira and Buddha

Then after 100 years of mahavira and Buddha we found a book on yoga composed by patanjali But such yogas not found in Vedas So we can say that patanjali took idea of that from ancient shramans. Because in Vedas no bhrahmin required to do yogas but required to do animal sacrifice and bathing in holy water and playing illogical rituals Then how they can originated the yoga Which required a strict vegetarianism but Vedic bhrahmins were not

Yes , shraman was father of yoga You can say that Shiva and rishabha was founder of yoga not Vedic rishis

Hi Divyank, it is interesting thoughts what you have said about the source of yoga from Dravidians, which is differ from the Vedic Aryans of Central Asia. I am interested to know more about it,, can you refer to me any article or sources. Thanks

Dear Timothy, Very glad to read the content in your website. Reading healthy discussion between You and Rabi was an experience! However, I agree with Rabi, I appreciate your respectful conduct. I appreciate your patience for some other feedbacks with disrspectful utterances. It seems that you have digested the very essence of Yoga, Yog: karmasu kaushalam and :Yoga: chitt-vritti Nirodh:” योग: कर्मसु कौशलम् | (श्रीमद्भगवद्गीता) योगश्चित्तवृत्ति निरोध: (पतञ्जलि). Hinduism and Yoga are so deeply interwoven, that it would not be appropriate to separate the both from each-other just to keep yourself safe from being considered as the Pro-Hindu! Doing this will lead us to the destination which is not to be aimed by a Yogi or a Yoga learner. I think that the days have now come when we can say that these tags of religion – ‘Hindu, Christian, Bauddha’ are now out dated. Do good and be good is what all religions teach. But no Yogi would mind if you wish to practice Yoga, keeping yourself detached with Hinduism as well! Hinduism does not teach to fight for the yourself. It rather teaches to fight for others, for what is right and for the helpless! I am not answering to anybody, nor I wish to claim any body wrong. I am still a lost mind, wandering in search of the ultimate truth and the way is still misty!! I just appreciate those who are far ahead in this journey of quest of life, at least than me and wish you may find the way to show it to others!

Thank you Timothy for sharing such practical information about Yoga in general. Rather the information may be agree or disagree by different individuals, I think it’s good effort that you have made to show us here in different parts of the world, outside of the areas and people of India who are not familiar of Hinduism. Regardless the information may or may not be complete. It is my believe that the more Yogis (here “yogi” is just for a general or even a superficial reference) are expose to the deep tradition, philosophy and technique of which ultimately have the power to cast off the bondage of names and forms created by the ignorance of the mind. And made possible for seeker of Truth to experience that ultimate reality of our innermost essence. This deed in itself is a practice of Yoga.

A few hundred thanks to the ones who are honest to their bones, who dare to use strait forward words to point out the short-comings of the “world of yoga” here now in our time, in both the west and the east. Personally I believe any effort with the intention to try bring Yoga back to its proper perspective is much needed in this era of material ignorance.

Let’s wish all may actualize the state of Yoga one day and see for ourself what Yoga really is. It is said that Jnana, Bhakti, Yoga(Raja) and Karma; any one or any combination of these 4 paths if practice with the aim of self-realization will lead to the same place. Reality, Truth or God. In my opinion, those are true Yogis who are seriously to prove it.

if any words of mine offend anybody, please accept my apology, namaste.

I would also love permission to use this brief history as a handout for my teacher trainees. Your work will of course, be sourced. Please send permission/ printable version to my email. Thank you so much.

Hi Sara, this sounds possible but please use our contact us page to make a formal use request.

I respect you, as you learned and teaching the yoga to others.

lord Siva give you long life.

thank you so much.

Hi Timothy; I have been regularly practicing yoga for last 5 years, have read the Yogasutras of Patanjali over the 5 years ( it’s not an easy read) and now have been trying to read more about it. Your history of Yoga write-up is a great effort in clearing the air on its origins.

As far as I can fathom, yoga does not have a belief in external God. It’s sole purpose is salvation and union of our soul with the universe.

Reference the various discussions here about relationship between Hinduism and Yoga: Hinduism can be called a collaborative religion or a way of life. Even now in parts of India (eg Himachal), every town and village has its own god. During certain festivals, a procession from every town carries their individual gods to a common meeting point. Then all the congregated people from all across pray to all the collected gods.

I strongly believe that India (Hindus) has so many gods because we believe in ours as well as respect and believe in others gods too. More so, we even believe and accept the atheists too.

In fact, if I am correct, One source of yoga comes from atheist philosophy (Samkyas).

May we be enlightened.

still Timothy you have to deal with the fact that biggest credits goes to Hindus for Yoga.

I have credited the origins of yoga to the Indus-Saraswati civilization which both yoga and Hinduism emerged from. Hinduism is a term invented by the British to describe the various religious practices of Indians at the time of colonization.

I was so happy to find this page to know about history of yoga. i went through to bottom to top ..i tell you something which you haven’t found anywhere yet..human life is the most pure form of life with bodies…every soul arrives to life form to get” mukti” ” moksha” ;;;liberation….;;;Yogis-whom you called Mystic Sages…use to perform 8.4 million postures in their yogi life to get human life again…You know Yog connects to unseen spiritual world which you can’t with your these physical eyes…. to Mantras are medium to generate your vibes to connect with these which you don’t understand or gonna see ever as you don’t respect the roots……i had a laugh at your last reply as you gave credit to some one…you are chosen aye! i live in Rishikesh …Himalayas ….a lil Yogi with my own divine experiences with Jesus , Shiva….i live a blessed life…you gonna be perfect in physical and if you want to go for something more than physical life….. You need to spend time as it should be…. Om Namah Shivaya….Satyam Shivam Sundaram…mean:::::Shiva is the truth:::shiva is the supreme:::shiva is the most beautiful ….

I do not like the divine practise as yoga has been reduced by so many to commercial businne and I do not like that nobody mention Lord Krishna the father of all yoga practice I do nolike it is by many confused as a pactice of hinduism No where will find Vedas or Mahabarat the verb hindu JeiSri Krishna

I love yoga. Thank you for the information here.

What is the date of this article?

The current version dates back to Nov 26, 2007, but the original version of this article would have been published sometime in 2001.

Hello, I’m doing a research paper on the science of yoga as a physical and spiritual practice. I’m looking for the publisher of this article. Will you please direct me to that info? Thank you and many blessings to all.

Yoga without Swami Satyananda Saraswati, founder of Bihar School of Yoga, is nothing in present age.

Respectfully, this brief history is erroneous and full of holes.

The prehistoric origins of yoga that you hint at are found in archaeological evidence of various meditation postures and allusions to prana. This would be approximately around the time the Vedic culture is believed to have begun, ca 6’000 years ago.

Aspects of tantra yoga, karma yoga and asthanga yoga developed further during the Vedanta age, as well as in Buddhism and Jainism. Pranayama, Asana, Dhyana – all these developed between the 8th and 5th centuries BCE.

What you failed to mention completely, is the heavy influence of Western gymnastics and proto-aerobics on Yoga in the 19th century. People like Krishnamacharya, Vivekananda or Swami Sivananda attempted to portray their yoga as one and the same as Patanjali’s system (which many Indians believe to be many centuries older than what you wrote), but this is not the case at all; their ‘modern’ yoga had hardly anything to do with the spiritual, meditative yoga of ancient times. A very influencial wave of fitness, which incorporated stretching, dance and gymnastics (developed in Scandinavia in the mid 19th century) was brought to India by the many Western colonists. Much evidence exists of how this not only influenced, but more or less created what we call Yoga today.

Glad every one here is fighting, arguing and claiming Yoga. Want to laugh out loud at so called teachers and researchers of yoga. They should know “Brahmins” are a class in Hindusim, A class which was involved in reading writing and teaching. Some people are referring here that some Veda’s promote eating meat and beef, Though I have never read them as original texts, I will like to inform that different vedas were written in different times if Rigveda was written in 1700 BCE others may be in 600 BCE. Hinduisam is not a religion but a way of living and strength of this way of living is its ability to respond to changing circumstances, acceptance of new ideas and changing accordingly. Originally all man kind had been non-vegetarian, even Hindus had been non-vegetarians. Except for Brahmins(whom Timonthy has mentioned in the beginning – used to practice yoga). Cow worshipping began in the later stages of evolution of Hinduism. So many good things in Hinduism have evolved in later stages because this religion is based on science and has tept evolving with new findings and discoveries. To understand that some one need to look into various studies which reveal the beef is not good for human body, cow’s urine has medicinal and heeling properties, in our villages after during first bath after delivery it is mandatory to add some drops of cow urine even a few drops are given to drink, cow dung is used to mop hows floor in villages because it is disinfectant. Cow’s urine is also used as pesticides which is not harmful like chemicals discovered by western world, composition of cow’s milk is very close to that of Human’s (please check the various researches) and there are much more benefits. All these things were discovered with time as Hindu’s discovered this they started worshipping cow and prohibited beef. Now comming back to ‘Yoga’, I will refer to names of certain poses:-‘ Surya Namaskar’- who worships Sun?, ‘Bhu Namskarm’- who worships Earth? . Yoga teaches and rests in the priciple that power lies inside us we need to identify and awaken it same does says Hinutva. Krishna in The Bhgavad Geeta says I am every where, in smallest particle of soil and hugest of the living beings. Even in some of our temples ‘Suraya Namaskar’ is part of Arti ritual. Hence I hope I have made my point here and have presented a few of evidences. Since I am grown up with Yoga around me in midst of people believing in Hindisim and people not believing in some of its teachings even being Hindu.

Timonthy I am glad you are passionate about Yoga but at the same time we can not reep out of our learning without thanking or giving ‘ Guru Dakshina’ to our Gurus (Teachers) Here you are not even ready to recognise their contribution. For those who want to know more about Yoga, there can be no place better than India to learn about it, you will find it every where in our culture some times fully some times in parts. And rather than reading people who have picked some knowledge from secondary research, read about people like Maharishi Patanjali who compiled Yoga sutras and dedicated his entire life for good of mankind.

I see you mentioned you grew around yoga. What I am really tired to see how commercial yoga has become in India. 90% of the schools are teaching yoga within one month (they call it ttc course), is it really possible? I like a fool thought a life time wasn’t enough. Anyway, can you please suggest me a good master or a school I could go to and devote myself to yoga and meditation. I would like to learn authentically rather than learning hurriedly in a span of 15 days or one month.

Thanks for a great article outlining the basics of the history of yoga. I found many of the comments below quite intense and I applaud your replies to each of these. I too have researched the history of yoga, although in one lifetime I doubt I would have even touched the surface.

I feel that some of the anger in the other comments is toward ‘western yoga’ and the fact yoga is now a billion dollar industry in the west and we walk around with our Ganesh Tshirts, Mala Beads and say Namaste at the end of our classes (which I find incredibly weird so don’t do it) and much of this which the west associates with yoga, is in fact, much of hinduism. I get that some people are a little peed off. What is important though, which I believe you do well Timothy, is stick with the factual history and research, which I don’t think many others have. If they had, they wound’t be disputing you. What I think we can all respect is that yoga has been a part of Hindu practice for a very long time. and it was the Hindus, of another name, who did set the foundations. It was the ancestors of hindus we know today, the people who modern Hindus actually do see as fellow Hindus.

I have many Hindu friends from India who are all yoga teachers (we are from Sivananda) and we are all one. There’s no separation of cultures or no talk of who is more deserving of practicing yoga or who did yoga first. We are all one. This, to me, is yoga.

I do however, question that the Sutras were compiled in the 2nd century though? Is the CE? My belief was always they were compiled somewhere between 4th – 2nd BCE. I’m wondering what your source is on this? I teach History of Yoga so this is important to me :)

Cheers from Australia x

This is awesome

When you said in your intro that yoga is divided into 4 parts you only included 3 whats the 4th?

All four are listed–please read it again.

Namaste. I just wanted to respectfully point out that samadhi is not the same thing as enlightenment. This is a common mistake and has been written about extensively in Yoga Philosophy. One of the better essays on it is by Michael Comans, PhD. No where is it said that the goal of yoga is samadhi. The goal of yoga is much higher than that and is laid out in the shruti. Also, the realization of “Divine Oneness” was mentioned earlier than the Upanishads, you find it in the Rig Veda as well. :)

Hope That Helps, Uma

you have done a good practice of yoga. Everyone taking benefit of yoga in turn nobody render any service to this great tradition. Few of you may be aware that there are hundreds of yoga manuscripts at least 1000 are available unpublished. all are not the same of Astanga yoga. there are hatha yoga, karma yoga, bhakti yoga etc. since you are teaching yoga, you should render service to this tradition by taking responsibility by publishing some of these texts.

Can anyone tell me if the ‘service of humanity’ is ever mentioned (maybe in different words) in the older scriptures of Yoga…? Just askin.

i like this comment

Wonderful article. I did not lnow all the details of Yoga History. Very spiritual process. Thank you ->

Gooood info

Why isn’t Hinduism mentioned in any part of this article?? The author does mention Hinduism’s holy scriptures peppered throughout the article but fails to connect it to the religion. Odd and disappointing. For instance, right off the bat, the statement: “The word yoga was first mentioned in the oldest sacred texts, the Rig Veda.”

Here’s another one: “The Vedas were a collection of texts containing songs, mantras and rituals to be used by Brahmans, the Vedic priests.” I suppose I should be happy that the word “Vedic” is mentioned because that’s what we Hindus are – Vedic. So, why couldn’t the word “Hindus” be included in parentheses after that statement so that people could make the connection and be truly educated?

Also odd that “Brahmins” is mentioned but again no Hinduism – I suppose Hinduism is only mentioned when there’s something negative to say.

The Rig Vedas are the religious texts of the Hindus. So is the holy Bhagavad Gita. What’s next? These religious scriptures won’t belong to Hindus anymore? WTH.

The word Hinduism is not mentioned here because: 1. This is the history of yoga, not Hinduism. 2. Yoga and Hinduism are two separate traditions. 3. The word and concept of Hinduism was coined much later than the practices of yoga: “It should be pointed out that the word ‘Hindu’ is not found in any of the classical writings of India. Nor can it be traced to the classical Indian languages, such as Sanskrit or Tamil. In fact, the word ‘Hinduism’ has absolutely no origins within India itself.” Source: https://goo.gl/8h2lVh

That is currectomundo.

Timothy, With all due respect, what I don’t think you’re seeing is that, while the term Hindu was coined much later than the origins of yoga, Hindu was a term to describe the varied spiritual beliefs and practices of the people of the Indus-Sarasvati region. Yoga is included in those practices and beliefs. The texts, rituals, and mantras you site in the history of yoga are the same texts, rituals, and mantras that embody Hinduism. You are focused on semantics. Yes, the word Hindu came later as a way to define the culture, religion, geographical region, etc., but modem Hindus do not separate themselves from the past cultures. Semantics aside, It’s one history. That’s all they want you to acknowledge, and I think when you have people of a certain culture, whose sacred traditions have been appropriated for superficial financial wealth, telling you they are upset, as an outsider of that culture, I would hope you could empathize with their frustration, even acknowledge that Hinduism could have been mentioned in the article, rather than painting them all as extreme nationalists with a political agenda. They are people, Timothy. They are people who want their culture respected rather than disregarded. You could have even given credit to the fact that yoga has been practiced in the Hindu tradition and grew out of the same history as Hinduism. That would have at least acknowledged Hinduism without letting go of the separatism you are clinging so hard to.

Your stating that “Hindu was a term to describe the varied spiritual beliefs and practices of the people of the Indus-Saraswati region” is incorrect. “The religion of the Vedic period was the religion of the Indo-Aryans of northern India. It is a historical predecessor of modern Hinduism, though significantly different from it.” Source: https://goo.gl/o2D4KG

You and others complaining about this issue have intentionally blurred the history and use of the word Hinduism. For what end you and others are doing this I am unsure, but it would be naive to disregard the current popularity of Indian nationalism as a motivation.

If you look through our website it should be clear that we consistently and passionately respect the origins and history of yoga and take extreme care to not promote cultural appropriation and superficiality. Why do you need to try to taint my character as insensitive, disrespectful and uncaring to make your argument? I have yet to see anyone provide a source (even an unreliable one) to discredit the notion that yoga and Hinduism are two separate traditions and that yoga emerged from Vedic philosophy. All I have seen from people trying to make your argument are personal attacks, most of which I’ve had to delete (some have been racist and downright disgusting) as they have violated our terms of conduct.

You want sources to discredit the notion that yoga and Hinduism are two separate traditions.Bhagavad gita which is a hindu text ask us to do yoga. Read shiva samhita which is the most important on hatha yoga. Hatha Yoga Pradipika another book in both these book shiva is considered as the first yogi.these are all hindu text.Yoga sutra of patanjali is also hindu religious text.Do you know what surya namaskar mean.On the contrary can you name one yogic text which originated separately from Hinduism.

You are missing the point and what you listed are not sources that support arguments or facts. Do all Hindus practice yoga? No, therefore your argument is a fallacy. If you had read the article you would have seen that my point that yoga and Hinduism developed at the same time and ideas were intermingled.

Hi Timothy, I’d love to cite your article, History of Yoga, in my literature review. I’m wondering when the article was written. Great read. Warm regards – Elise Greig

The current version dates back to Nov 26, 2007, but the original version of this article would have been published sometime in 2000 or 2001.

Hi Friend, I was intrigued by the thread of discussion on whether Yoga is part of Hinduism or not. To me it is meaningless discussion. What are we going to achieve by proving if Yoga is a “Hindu” tradition or otherwise. When Jesus arrived at Bethlehem, he did not arrive to preach Christianity, rather he arrived to teach universal knowledge, which is acceptable to everyone. It was later codified as Bible 500 years later at Constantinople. Similarly when Patanjali composed Yoga, it will be wrong to say that he did it for the sake of Hinduism. Because the term religion did not exist during his time. Later when Hinduism was codified, Yoga was indeed incorporated as one of the six pillars of Hinduism (the other five pillars are Samkhya, Vaisesikha, Nyaya, Mimamsa and Vedanta). However, the teachings of Yoga is definitely universal, like the teachings of Jesus, and one does not either need to prove that it is a Hindu “thing” or has to be a “Hindu” to practice it. I totally reject this chest thumping of a section of “Hindus” who have forgotten a core principle of Hinduism, namely Humility. Cheers

Wow – sooo many clashing egos.

Live in the moment – be free and joyus

Yogananda says yoga is a way of meditation through any religion. ?

Hi Timothy, I’d love to cite your article, History of Yoga, in my literature review for my history of american culture class can you give me the references also please and thank you!

I have enjoyed reading this discussion. As a white American female, I have to side with the Hindus on what yoga is. They should know their own religion. I would be flabbergasted if a foreigner tried to tell me I did not understand my religion. I would think they were quite arrogant to think they knew better. I feel the Hindus on this site have been very honest and I appreciate that. The real issue is the deception in the West to convince the masses that yoga is not a religious practice. For all the Christians who have posted on this site about how much they enjoy yoga, I have to say that the Hindus understand Christianity better than you do. They cleverly pointed out that it is impossible to be a Christian and do yoga. They are correct. The two are not compatible. If you think they are, you only deceive yourself. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to God the Father, except through me”. If you mix religions, you are no longer worshipping Jesus, for he demands your faithfulness. He does not want someone to be like a harlot chasing other gods. Choose this day whom you will serve.

Yoga is not a religion, which is why so many Christians find that their yoga practice deepens and enriches their faith and connection to God.

Good point. Religion is divided, yoga is not. Yoga is a practice of meditation to help connect one’s self to their own beliefs, thoughts and spirit.

If Not Christianity,The Devil.

I can – not eat beef and love a cow and not be Hindu. I can – not eat pork or bottom feeders or not put cheese on my burger and not be Jewish. I can – love others and be kind, compassionate, empathetic, believe in Jesus’ existence and not be Christian. I can – pray and not be Muslim, Christian, or Jewish. I can – practice yoga and not be Hindu.

— Disclaimer – I eat beef, pork, bottom feeders, looove cheeseburgers, practice ahimsa daily, pray, work towards presenting the most kind, compassionate, empathetic sides of myself, believe that Jesus existed, and I practice and teach yoga. But I am not Christian, Muslin, Jewish or Hindu. I am a human being who seeks God and yoga helps me access Him in the most tangible and directly connected way – through my physical body, the one given to me by Him. I am an instrument that I learn how to play and then share with the world the expressions that are possible within me.

p.s. Timothy’s “yoga ≠ Hinduism” isn’t him saying Yoga is not a part of Hinduism, he is saying that Yoga does not equate to/equal Hinduism. It’s like, all humans are animals but, not all animals are human. Animals ≠ Humans, animals do not equal humans. But certainly they come from the same Source. :) Just because you speak different languages, who owns the birth of sound? When was the first sound made? Is sound a religion, because it seems most people make it, use it, believe in it, even if they are deaf or mute, sound can be made with the body. Is sound proprietary to any one religion? I think not, yet all religions use it and even those who do not believe in anything religious, spiritual, or Godlike use sound. Is sound therefore being commercialized and misappropriated by everyone? Or sports – if I “hit a ball” – am I playing baseball, golf, tennis, hockey (okay it’s a puck), volleyball, or table tennis? Is hitting a ball only “allowed exclusively” to one sport?

** The question is, can you only practice yoga (and nothing else) and still be Hindu according to Hindus?

The mainstream Hindu philosophy includes six systems (ṣaḍdarśana) – Samkhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa and Vedanta.Some one following samkhya is also hindu,yoga is also hindu,Vedanta is also hindu.to follow these together or separately is up to you.Samkhya rejects the concept of god and you still are consider hindu even if you do not believe in god.

Yes, someone following those philosophies can be Hindu, but they can be any other religion or no religion at all . Yoga is independent of religion.

There are facts and their are opinion.Opinion should be based on facts and not on subjective feeling or prejudice.Fact is Hindus have sacred text which ask us to do yoga.Can you quote any scripture which are outside the purview of Hindus which talk about yoga ?

You are again missing the point and I’ve already addressed this issue in my previous comment to you as well as in the text of this article. Do all Hindus practice yoga? No. Therefore your argument is a fallacy.

When we talk about self enlightenment, I become weary. We have become a nation of selfish self centered people in the US. You can quote all the “history” of yoga you want. It is a false replacement for the one true God who created all things. He even gave us free will. Too many have fallen prey to anti God “religions”. We all were put on this plane for one reason, and that is to attain heaven. Do you really want to have a honest and peaceful heart? Pray the Rosary and meditate on it’s mysteries. Yoga isn’t going to get you into heaven, This is the heaven that God the Father created for you. Now, let all the Catholic bashing commence! Richard.

Love this. We all preach Yoga and we let the mind take over with dates, names, ideas of what is right or wrong, loosing the actual practice. Thank you for remind me how I, as human being am so small compared to the force around me that works and evolves. Thank you for reminding me why I am destroying the world and everything around it. Thank you for reminding me, as a human being why I like wars and differences. I hope that one day we will say “it is all good, it doesn’t matter”. ” Let’s do our best”. “Let’s go out and do something good”. “Let’s stop the ego game”. Good life to you all. With gratitude. Namaste, Amen or what is appropriate for you.

Wow what a tedious discussion this is, I had no idea a lot of Hindus felt this way about yoga. They are obviously not familiar with Joseph Campbell and the entire idea of comparative mythology and religion. Believe it or not, when the world myths and religions are seen comparatively there emerges much elucidation on the structure and process of enlightenment. One example is how the Kabbalistic Tree of Life correlates with the cakras for instance, which is based upon number. Sahasrara = 1 = Kether down to Muladhara = 7 = Netzach-Malkuth. One moves up this ladder through life and hopefully eventually crosses the abyss and attains enlightenment, the little “I” becomes the big “eye” and is wed to the eternal, which is the undefinable. It is like the probability cloud of quantum physics, everything potentially and nothing actually. I think the system gains from being stripped from fundamentalism and any one religion, as people learn to drop their pre-conceived beliefs. Enlightenment is universal and can be attained by various methods. I think bodywork methods such as Hatha yoga, the Reichian therapy of Regardie, hypnsosis, are great, but they seem to need a devotional element to really push one into a higher realm. Perhaps sexual Tantric yoga using the cakras or actual magickal ritual will do this. I crossed the abyss using only a version of the LBRP ritual and classical yoga and pranayama, as well as studying a lot, but would now include a lot more bodywork seeing how powerful it is. Eventually there will congeal a great body of work upon what practices are most effective and pleasurable for enlightenment or the best change in quality of self without any dogma attached to them.

Hello, to everyone… I have read all of the above comments…whilst the majority of you debating yoga and its roots… You are missing the point of it clearly… Is it SO important to be Right? I believe yoga is a totally individual practice and if it works for the person…who are we to question another’s practice…the path to enlightenment for me includes compassion and understanding of myself and others…I try not to get caught up in “being right”. As for me it’s about letting go…ego included….

Peace to you all. We are all important xx

Hello, Liked the text very much.I read the above comments,I like that you are discussing about yoga and our religion Hinduism.I think yoga means forgetting our world around us. Yoga helps to keep our body flexible and it also helps in increasing our concentration. Have a good life.

After reading all of this I got two things to say:

I just wanted to stretch in peace. Thanks for confusing me so much more!

You should have a read at “Roots of Yoga” by Mallinson and Singleton. I get where you’re coming from with this, it’s the same Feuerstein-based history that most of us were taught in teacher training before modern scholars started to prove (in the past few years) that there was a big mix of romantic re-imagination and straight-up religious misdirection going on.

Their thorough and modern academic research has shown a lot of what you’ve written here (which is the same as I had been teaching trainees for years) to be incorrect, so you’ll probably want to re-write it for accuracy’s sake. Too much stuff for me to go through line-by-line but you can read the above book and see for yourself, I think it’s important that we stop spreading these inaccuracies forward.

Hi Scott, Yes, this is a bit out of date. I have been planning on updating this article to add a bit more detail, clarifications, and references. I’ll check out the book you mentioned.

Hinduism is referred today to what was Santana dharma in old days. Hinduism is a term coined much later and not even by the locals. So just changing the name does not mean that way of life what is called as Hinduism today was not practiced earlier. The religious books of Hinduism/Sanatana dharma have been codified much later. The ancient practices of learning were based on Guru-Shisya parampara and oral/verbal learning. Since writing was not discovered at that time it used to pass through generations in oral form. Later people wrote it in leaves of plant or bark of trees (mainly tadpatra) and after so many years it came in written forms of texts when means of paper and pen are available. Many people are saying here that to practice yoga, one does not need to be a Hindu, therefore it’s not a practice developed by Hinduism/Sanatana Dharma. They need to understand that nothing in Hinduism/Sanatana Dharma promotes closed consciousness. Anybody can follow any God/ any method of prayer / no prayer. In Bhagvat Geeta, Krishna ( the human incarnation of Narayana, the ultimate God and source of energy) says – “Everyone who pray to me, does not pray to me, does not believe in me, even the demons and all souls at last come to me

Yoga to Hindus is like Namaz to Muslim.

very nice and helpful article…thank you so much for provide us knowledge about yoga..

The honey is the rasa and the bees the effort or tapas

Shiva was originally known as Rudra, a minor deity addressed only three times in the Rig Veda. He gained importance after absorbing some of the characteristics of an earlier fertility god and became Shiva, part of the trinity

hi Timothy, your article on yoga is really helpful. i was searching about the history of yoga and i think i got the correct article. i am a hindu. the comments on this article really show your good debating skills. i want tell everyone who read this article and the comments that it is not appropriate to mix hinduism with yoga. i can really Tim’s (hope you don’t mind me calling you Tim) view. although as a hindu i have read the vedic texts and found that yoga was found by hindus. no offence. yoga was found in ancient india as Tim has mentioned. it is true that hindus kept yoga alive for thousands of years . But stating this fact : hindus found yoga, to be written in the article is not necessary and it was the people of india who found it . the fact that at that time only one religion was there entitles the credit to hindus but believe me it is not important to mention hinduism in this article. Tim i highly appreciate your views. you have correctly stated all the facts. kindly don’t listen these people who despite giving all the logic are questioning the same stupid thing. i have a yoga competition so wish me best of luck. i am very thankful to you and your article (including your logical comments) i believe that we should not bring religion in these types of things which give one peace and satisfaction. i am just a teenager but i have participated in many yoga competitions and have won many medals. though this time the competition is different and it is not about flexibility or performing asanas but this time it is a debate on yoga. So thanks to everyone who participated in the debate about the origin of yoga . i largely support your views Tim. thanks – Kasturi

next time please keep the particular date of the article. i am using for my bibliography. thank you with love.

I’ve already mentioned the publication date in the comments before.

The issue with us Indians is we have big egos. Truth is the practice of yog can be done separately from Hinduism, even though that is the religion that founded it. One is correlated with the other but not solely so. And that is probably why you received such an acrid tone from so many. That seems to be the main gripe of not giving credit to Hindus for discovering yoga, which honestly doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. But is good to know everyone’s version of history as it can help get a much broader view on topics like this.

Regardless yoga can be done by ANYONE religion or no religion!

I had to research the history of Yoga for a research project and I came across this website. I got more then what I asked for and that’s actually batter. The website isn’t like any other site either. It has colours and the print is easy to read. And the paragraphs aren’t to long so I’m not bored when I’m reading. Most history I read is fine print with unwanted details stuff in the middle of it. In this case the paragraphs were right to the point and it was too small and it wasn’t to big. I was surprisingly interested and I was kept on task. Thank for the website and the learning experience.

If anyone wants to see the clearest evidence on the matter then I’d suggest reading “The Roots of Yoga” by Jim Mallinson and Mark Singleton.

They’ve clearly evidenced that the roots of Yoga are in the Shramanera communities (i.e. non-Vedic) and even that the source text of the more modern Hatha Yoga is actually a Buddhist Vajrayana text. The bottom line of any deep study of Yoga history is that Yoga clearly belongs to no specific culture as it has been adopted and adapted by so many different cultures and traditions over the centuries. The word itself is defined in several different, distinctive and often contradictory ways by many of these traditions, even to the extent of arguing over the actual Sanskrit root. The practices have changed from generation to generation and vary wildly. Yoga today is nothing like Yoga was even a few hundred years ago and will continue to change, influenced by everyone who takes up its practice.

I appreciate your comments on the age of this article, I’m simply posting here so anyone interested in the topic (you must be to have read this far) can have a good reference based on actual scientific research by scholar-practitioners and make their own minds up.

This debate is about the origin of yoga is a waste of time and is leading nowhere. If yoga is a Hindu prayer other religions have their own prayers. If it is just a physical exercise there is nothing like an hour early in the morning jogging or a kickabout in the park.

Hi Timothy. I appreciate this brief summary on the history of yoga. I have read the comments and understand that this may need a bit of updating. May I have your permission to include this article (giving proper citation and credit, of course) in my teacher training manual? Thanks for considering.

Please use our contact us page to submit a formal request.

Hi Timothy.. its really opening to read about your article, and I am doing more research about it. Could you refer to me some sources or articles that support the claim that yoga and Hinduism has different origin but develop in similar time

Hey, all these comments were pretty fun to read through. I enjoy a good debate now and again. I like to enjoy yoga as a secular activity. I hope everyone reading this has a great rest of their day!

Yes I would like permission to give this article out and of course give you the credit. I am a yoga teacher and want my student to have a brief overview on the history of yoga. Thank you so much!

Please send us a formal request via our contact us page for permission for use.

I have been reading the comments and varying beliefs. Interesting to say the least. I have an odd request. I’m searching for information relating to ancient times where yoga was originally an out door practice aligned with nature. And that it was a practice of Yogis to place people with illness beneath particular trees, depending on their condition. Different tree for different ailment. It’s best described akin the modern day “earthing” any link or knowledge of this practice would be appreciated. I find it a fascinating adjunct to the practice of Yoga. Blessings to all who have participated on the page and a huge thanks Timothy ?

People !! Let’s all remember that it’s about love and enlightenment .. no matter what religion or who started it or reintroduced it .. whether you believe in Jesus or follow Buddha’s teachings or Hinduism… The teachings are meant for us to celebrate love , to operate from love and to create oneness .. and again to spread the love and light .

Stop arguing about where it came from or who “owns” it. That’s not very loving …

We are supposed to get closer to one another through love and our teachings and practices ..

Yoga coming to the west is a gift to create a pathway for self realization and love .

Let’s celebrate that ..

Sending you all much love ❤️❤️❤️

Dear All, First, thank you Timothy for bringing your yoga practice and teaching online and for sharing what you know in public. More importantly, the forum is a wonderful venue for enabling important reflections and for sharing sources on what we know about the relationship of yoga and Hinduism (and Hindustan). I was exposed to many of these tensions and teachings by my teachers at Rishikesh Yog Peeth in India, who taught about the ‘self-study’ (Svadhyaya) dimension of yoga. I am also, by profession, a philosopher and philosopher of history so I understand the value of teaching as interpretation, i.e., as a hermeneutic. Thank you and the others on this blog for the helpful and insightful contributions to such an important activity, yoga. cheers

Very good response Jules.

Saptarshi Ray, Very well said. Timothy, you’ve done well in your patient and consistent responses here.

Researching yoga, I came across this fascinating blog. I don’t know much about yoga and its origins but what I do understand is that it is a peaceful practice for all to enjoy. Please stop the fighting. There is not one correct answer as none of you folk were around 10,000 years ago. Have peace and get on with your own practice without pushing opinions on others.

Who is the Publisher of this Article?

OM SHANTI SHANTI SHANTI

GOOD SITE, GOOD KNOWLEGDE, GOOD INITIATIVE. MY KNOWLEGE, MY PRACTICE MIGHT BE DIFFERENT THAN YOURS BUT I RESPECT YOUR EFFORTS AND AM NOT IN A POSITION TO FULLY CONDENM YOU.

A TRUE HINDU A TRUE YOGI. :) NAMASTAY.

AND NO, I’M NOT UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ANYTHING BUT THE NAME OF GOD/Faith.

Bhagvad-Gita has got nothing to do with Brahmans and Rishis. The Knowledge of Bhagvad Gita was given by Lord Krishna who was neither a Brahmin nor a Rishi (seer). However, later on Brahmans corrupted the Gita by introducing the Varna system in Gita. Krishna spoke against the Brahminical rituals. He said quit all bull shit rituals and practices and surrender yourself to the Almighty. Gita and Yoga exercise are two completely different things. Please do your research before stating anything related to Bhagvad-Gita.

Namaste Tim,

I think it’s magnificent you are promoting and teaching Yoga. On its own, it is a great practice for everyone; It is peaceful, makes them feel good and works. That can’t be a bad thing, can it? For most of us that’s all we need and there’s no need for engaging in philosophical argument , it neither provides enlightenment nor advances my Yoga practice.

However, I have not got close to becoming ‘Nirmaani’, so I find contradictions rather bothersome. So to quote from your own writing in the “Five Niyams of Yoga”……..

Ishvara Pranidhana (devotion) is the dedication, devotion, and surrender of the fruits of one’s practice to a higher power. This Niyama fuses two common aspects of yoga within it: the devotion to something greater than the self and the selfless action of karma yoga. Patanjali tells us that to reach the goal of yoga we must dissolve our egocentric nature and let go of our constant identification with ourselves. To do this, our yoga practice and all of the benefits we may receive from our practice must be seen as an offering to something greater than ourselves. Through this simple act of dedication we become reminded of our connection to our higher power, and our yoga practice becomes sacred and filled with grace, inner peace, and abounding love.

So, if you say what you mean and mean what say, there appears to be some contradictions in some of your responses to posts made by others. In your writing above, you have mentioned “Ishvara” a “higher power” “something greater than ourselves” and “sacred” . Given that you give great stock to Wikedpedia , you may wish to look up the meaning of Ishvara and, in the Oxford dictionary, the definition word sacred. Whilst you vehemently deny any connection between Hinduism , religion and Yoga, it seems odd that you propound this in your writing elsewhere. So you might find it’s either your mastery of Yoga philisophy or of English that is found wanting.

Furthermore, I know nothing about you, so am in no position to judge whether you are indeed a final authority on the origins of Yoga or not. So, for the benefit of the intellectually curious, I wondered if you could justify all your assertions with references to the scriptures or authoritative sources. That will help quell some of the arguments about your or credibility.

Finally, if you wish to become a fine violin player, you’d probably want to ensure you learn from someone who can play , and very well. I believe it is therefore encumbent on every ‘shisya’ (pupil) to ensure that their teacher , practices what they teach. Ie the teacher, Guru, or master whatever you may wish to call them, is a living embodiment of what he professes and teaches. Again, referring to your writing above “we must dissolve our egocentric nature….” . Yet you feel it necessary to spend time attempting to correct anyone who goes against your opinions (which as it stands, without references, is all they are), and rudely alleging they are Hindu Nationalists, rather than showing any understanding or compassion. So, I’d be grateful if you could enlighten me, is this an example of “ dissolving our ego centric nature” ?

So, I hope you don’t mind clarifying a few things but if I’m going to accept someone’s teachings, I really need to know they are the real thing.

Thanks for your thoughtful comments. The presentation of Ishvara Pranidhana in PYS is interesting as it creates a unique and hybrid approach to the Sankhya philosophy. There are also other small parts of the broad spectrum of yogic teachings that meander more towards a Hindu or religious flavor. In general terms, yoga is a non-secular practice.

It should also be noted that this article is a bit out of date and that my responses on these comments span many years. As a student of yoga, I am constantly learning new things as well as refining my previous knowledge. I certainly do not consider myself “a final authority on the origins of Yoga” or as someone who never contradicts himself.

I’ve unfortunately received many rude, nasty and racist comments on this article that required deletion, and it is mostly these deleted comments that informed me how many comments are being written from a Hindu Nationalist perspective. It is interesting that once I started calling them out using this term that these type of comments have dramatically decreased. Sometimes showing understanding or compassion is not the most skillful approach, especially when you are obviously being trolled.

In your article you wrote old twice, just sayin’, I did the same thing when I was in school, but good job

Wow! I have been reading all comments and I do not understand why people is so confused in regards to how, when, where or if is Yoga good or bad?. it is simple: If something comes from above (Almighty God) is good, if something comes from darkness, confusion, deceitful etc. it bad. “people are destroyed for lack of knowledge”.

I have been researching about yoga since six year but this blog open my eyes iam belons to hindu but to practice yoga not need to be from any schhol its pure science yoga is truth rule of nature evry one accept it not to debate about it

Yoga is very important thing of our life

Great information! Any chance you could give me a list of your references? Im doing a project on the history of yoga. :) Thanks

Hi Timothy I have come across your article on the origins of yoga as I am starting my journey into yoga and it’s teachings this year, my journey will start at Krishna Village here in Australia, however I have been searching and reading different articles and there does seem to be a lot of different views most of which are confusing. Your article has given a direction to follow. I do however find it rather interesting and some what disappointing that the comments made by some individuals rather aggressive which from my limited understanding goes against both yoga and Hinduism practice. Please understand I’m not questioning your accuracy but following my curiosity to know more

Ha ha, you are all fighting over silly things. Hinduism is not an -ism; English is an object-oriented language that needs to neatly package everything and everyone. “Hinduism” is simply “the belief systems and practices of peoples inhabiting the general region of the world now known as India.” Case in point is that you cannot convert to “Hinduism”; you have to be born in India to be Hindu. I view it as intact, vibrant, and ever-evolving non-homogenous and super-regional indigenous ‘religion(s)’ of India, and of regions influenced by East Indian civilization. And thank all the gods and goddesses for that!

does it means that if you are not a Hindu, needless to practice yoga?

Timothy Being a Hindu I commend your interest and effort in giving an insight to the history of yoga. The brief summary of the different periods of the evolution of yoga is very insightful. I am surprised by the comments of some of the Hindus as to how they finding faults in your article rather than adding or contributing to the article. The idea of yoga is the physical aspect to reach the meditative stage. All yogas are performed solely for the purpose of aligning your breath to a meditative breath.

Wow, I had no idea the long history and complex evolution of yoga. Thanks for doing this great research. All the Best, Scott

Wow, Timoty, you generated such a long chain of different “this is the real history” after your post! I would like to point that I am just a beginner into the Yoga practice. However, I always felt very spiritual and connected to our nature. I think Yoga can be a great practice to develop my inner self, my mind and my body.

It is curious how many of the posts talk about the religions involved in the Yoga practice or making comparations with other religions such as Christianism. I come from a Catholic culture where, ‘thank God’, no one tried to impose me any actual religious belief. Even if I used to believe in God as a child, that idea disappeared as soon as I started to learn about the world, in a philosophical way.

Since I am new in this, I can´t really talk about the origins of Yoga, but what I feel as true, is that any religion should be totally attached to the Yoga practice. Religions are man-words created at a certain point to teach others about different ideas, or “good” ideas. Ideas that should make understand people what´s our path in our lives. Religions are just man-philosophies that, at some point, became static ideas in a book, and were somehow imposed to everyone. Don´t get me wrong, I think all the religions have many topics in common (how to deal with our life and other’s) that, if correctly understand them, they could make good in our world. But religions are not free, and religions (driven by human beings) are imposing their beliefs. This is why I get why there is a discussion about who Yoga belongs to, because it is spoken from religious minds.

It is great to understand that Yoga comes from India and to know that probably Yoga and Hinduism have a lot in common as they have lived together in the same country for centuries. But if someone is an actual yogi, a spiritual person, someone who understands what and where we are… Would really discuss and impose Yoga to be part of a religion that was created so many centuries ago? I believe the idea of Yoga, in the same way of any religion, in the same way of any philosophy (Buddhism e.j) are ideas that come from human beings’ minds. But Yoga is not a religion, therefore is not imposed. If we want everyone to understand and help the world, we should promote Yoga in any kind of country/idea, instead of criticising each other’s “because you don’t match this amazing practice with my religion”.

As I said, I am not religious but much of my way of acting in society (culturally speaking) is “Catholic” since the country where I was born follows in a majority that religion. So I have Catholic notes but I have my own philosophy influenced by that religion probably. With this I want to say, Yoga is a practice influenced by Hinduism because they’ve been living together for long, but I believe Yoga is much more spiritual and philosophical, than religion can be. So, despite its influences, I wouldn´t say Yoga and Hinduism are the same at all.

I will be checking out more of your content!

yoga, when practiced consistently and correctly, has the power to break apart the ego. yoga in ancient times as said above was done by brahmans and the Vedic priests. why didnt brahmins abolished caste system , brahmins themselves are toxic and are most hatred towards lower castes . why they had to show themselves on top of caste cycle

Would just like to add something to my comment on 1 May 2020 at 1: 14 pm.

Yoga is a lot more Spiritual that Physical. Yoga also teaches about being acceptant and acknowledging the truth.

it is really very wonderful and joyful to know abou our anvient history. Tjank you for this blog.

This discussion has been exhausting for me to read and I must apologize for what I am about to say ahead of time. Although I will state that everyone’s mentioning of Hindu and Yogic intertwining has blown my mind as.I never knew about its’ full history. That being said, though by everyone’s account, exact dates are not as important as the substance material, through an astronomy program, found the year, based upon given astrological signs, for the birth of Lord Rama. According to a computer program, it is 4321 B.C..

India’s tradition can not be separated from catur veda which have born a focus of bodily liberation (karma detachment). This very core of catur veda you can find within samhita or upanisads. Liberation is meant to unify the atman and brahman, and this had become main focus of discussion during vedic period, let’s arbitrary say “spiritual objective (SO)”. To reach SO that causing various theories such as karma kanda (ritualistic ways), and jnana kanda(knowledge way). In the persuit of knowledge way and the effort of proofing karma kanda is effective arising further thoughts such as epistemology on attaining knowledge (pramanam), refusing karma kanda and existence of atman and brahman (atheistic), etc. One of the most extreme way to reach the SO is developed during the time of shramana that is serious contemplation, abstain from any worldly comforts, and this brought in itself a paradox and arising the opinion, that to gain the knowledge we have to make to body and spirit healthy as mentioned on samkhya-yoga philosopy in the triguna discussion.

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The history of yoga: How it started, and how it’s going

Don't get it twisted, this is the history of yoga.

Yoga promotes physical and mental well-being and unity and harmony of the body and mind. The ancient practice of yoga is skyrocketing in popularity as more people discover the benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety and calming the mind to boosting strength, balance, and flexibility. Yoga studios, classes, and discussions are popping up everywhere. You might be wondering, how did yoga start? What’s the history behind this beloved form of exercise? Yoga has a long and fascinating history rich in culture, spirituality, and philosophy.

What is yoga?

Where did yoga come from.

• The four periods of yoga’s history

Modern yoga today

Yoga is a type of meditative movement involving specific physical postures and poses and a focus on deep breathing. Yoga enhances mindfulness and your ability to achieve a higher state of consciousness and better connect with your authentic self, nature, and the world around you. 

There are different styles and intensities of yoga, including gentler and slower practices and more physically demanding practices. Yoga might include chanting and other meditation methods. Almost anyone can practice yoga to varying degrees, from children to older adults.

The ancient system of yoga practices originated in India and has been passed down for thousands of years from teacher to student. Yoga is a Sanskrit word — the classical sacred language of Hinduism that arose in South Asia. In English, the word translates to “yoke” or “union,” which means to unite or draw together. With yoga, the idea is to unite your mind, body, and spirit.

The four periods of yoga’s history

The long history of yoga is categorized into four periods: pre-classical, classical, post-classical, and modern.

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Pre-classical (vedic)

The Indian Government’s Ministry of External Affairs states that the Indus-Sarasvati civilization cultivated the earliest theory of yoga in Northern India around 2,700 B.C. — the dawn of the pre-classical period. Many people claim the discipline dates back well over 5,000 years ago and early writings of yoga were documented on palm leaves. 

Ancient Indian texts (sūktas) mention yoga, such as the Rig Veda , which was mostly composed between 1500 and 1000 B.C. Rig Veda is one of the holiest texts in Hinduism, often used by Vedic priests. Rig Veda contains mantras, rituals, and songs and provides tips for controlling your breath and balancing energies. 

The Upanishads collection of yogic texts dates back to 800 B.C. and contains 200 scriptures. Upanishads collection shows the refinement and development of yoga and centers on the overarching sacrifice of the ego through wisdom, self-knowledge, and action. You can find variations of the schools of yoga in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.

The classical period dates roughly between 500 B.C. and 800 A.D. and is largely focused on Patanjali’s Yoga-Sûtras. Patanjali was a Hindu philosopher, mystic, and author often called the father of yoga. He fine-tuned a more systematic presentation of yoga (classical yoga) and detailed the “ashtanga” or the “eight-limbed path” to enlightenment in the Yoga-Sûtras. 

Post-classical

During the post-classical period, around 800 A.D. to 1700 A.D., yoga masters shifted away from the ancient Vedas and developed Tantra Yoga. The aim of Tantra Yoga is to cleanse and rejuvenate the body and mind and increase longevity. Yogis zoned in on how this meditative movement can improve your physicality. This post-classical period also led up to the creation of Hatha Yoga — the most common yoga practice we see in the West today. The word Hatha means force in Sanskrit, emphasizing the importance of the physical body as well as the mind.  

The modern period stemmed from the late 1800s and early 1900s when yoga picked up steam in the West as yoga masters traveled around America and Europe sharing their teachings. Scholars and curious intellectuals attended the lectures of these Hindu teachers. 

The Western public started learning about yoga during the mid-19th century, and by the late 1940s, yoga studios had made their way to Hollywood. Many schools of yoga were founded in the 20th century, including Bikram yoga.

Today, modern yoga encompasses a range of practices with different poses and purposes. It’s a thriving multibillion-dollar industry and a huge talking point in the health and fitness world. Yoga isn’t designed to be esoteric; people from all walks of life can learn and practice yoga. There are modified versions of the poses for those with physical limitations. Typically, the more you practice, the better you’ll get. 

You might decide to try yoga to reap the benefits , such as increased flexibility and strength and a reduction in stress and anxiety. Yoga has been proven to be an effective alternative treatment for major depressive disorder and for lowering inflammation . Inflammation is a key driver in a multitude of chronic illnesses, including arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and Crohn’s disease. 

Yoga is different from many other forms of exercise due to its interesting spiritual and philosophical history. For thousands of years, yoga practitioners have been joyfully sharing the benefits and wonders of yoga. Now, yoga has made its way from India all over the world. Yoga has stood the test of time, and people everywhere are still using this ancient practice to improve their mental and physical health.

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You have three parts of your deltoid muscles that cover the top of your shoulder. Your rear deltoid muscles are shaped like an upside-down triangle and located at the back of your shoulders, connected to your shoulder blades. These important muscles stabilize your back and shoulders and help you move your arm to the front, side, and back behind you. 

The dragon flag is an exercise that targets the deep core muscles. It involves raising your legs and hips towards the ceiling while keeping your body straight. Because you have to keep your torso and legs straight in this exercise, it is fairly difficult and requires immense core strength. 

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An Ancient Story of Yoga: from the Museum of Classical Yoga

Shri yogendra museum of classical yoga is the world's first museum established on the theme of yoga.

By The Yoga Institute

Shri Yogendra Museum of Classical Yoga

World's first Yoga Museum, Shri Yogendra Museum of Classical Yoga, was inaugurated in 1987 at The Yoga Institute, by the then President of India, Shri Giani Zail Singh. Conceptualized to show Yoga as a way of life, it provides guidelines for all those who are interested in studying classical Yoga. The museum presents a historical and balanced view of Yoga, which is a necessity amidst the confusion that has spawned in Yoga activities in India and abroad. 

Yogendra Museum The Yoga Institute

With an array of indoor and outdoor displays, and amongst the various sections on the history and concepts of Yoga, the museum also has a collection of articles belonging to Shri Yogendraji, in honour of his memory. Let's take a dive into the History of Yoga.

Lotus The Yoga Institute

“Like the lotus, a yogi lives in the midst of the samsara and blooms.”

Yoga is not a religious doctrine, nor a primitive philosophy of mysticism. Is it some exotic Hindu magic that can be accepted only with awe and through prolonged ascetic studies? Does its mastery give magical powers over yourself and others? These are colourful misconceptions. The improvements that Yoga can make in your mind and body are often magical almost miraculous, but it does not make Yoga a system of magic. You can use Yoga in your ordinary daily life

Eight fold path The Yoga Institute

When people say they are going for a yoga class they generally mean an asana class. However, asana is a small part of yoga whereas yoga is the comprehensive whole, including the body– breath–mind–intellect–spirit complex. In the Yoga Sutras of Maharishi Patanjali, asana is a part of the eight-fold path called Ashtanga Yoga. Ashtanga Yoga comprises of yamas which deal with an entire value system and niyamas which is related to personal disciplines. Ashtanga means eight limbs or branches, of which an asana or physical yoga posture is merely one branch, breath while or pranayama is another. These four stages form the bahiranga yoga sadhana.

Pratyahara, the 4th limb, is the connecting bridge between Bhairanga Yoga i.e. external and Antaranga Yoga i.e. internal. Here we try to curtail our external senses and move towards the true inner self. The last three inner stages are dharana, dhyana and samadhi. These three form the antaranga yoga sadhana (the inner journey of yoga). The sutras on antaranga yoga of Maharishi Patanjali are briefly explained in the section on meditative postures. This inward journey is expressed extensively throughout this book, especially through the inspiring thoughts and the philosophical introduction.

Here's a brief chronology of Yoga from around 3000 BC to 7th century AD: • Richas (Vedas) - 3000 B.C. - Indicate earliest stirrings of Bhakti • Shrutis (Upanisads) - 1500-600 B.C. - Earliest experiences of Aryan Rishis • Yajnavalkya - 600 B.C. - Legendary author 'Yogi Yajnavalkya' • Panchratta Sattvats - 400 B.C - Tribe of kshatriyas who took up the Ekantika Bhakti cult • Patanjali - Earlier than 200 B.C. - Author of 'Yogasutra' • Svetasvataropanishad - 200 B.C. - First to mention Bhakti cult • Mathara - 1st Century A.D. - Author of 'Mathara Vrtti’ • Bhagvata - 5th Century A.D. - Flowering of the 'Pancharata' or 'Bhagvata' religion • Nayanamaras - 5th Century A.D. - Sivabhaktas • Bhakti Cult - 5th Century A.D. - Nucleus of Indian Culture • Paramartha - 6th Century A.D - Translated 'Mathara Vrtti' into Chinese • Gaudapda - 6th Century A.D - Wrote commentary on Samkhya Karika • Tattvasamasa Sutra - 6th Century A.D - Small work of Sutras of varying numbers; those from no. 22-27, the author is unknown.

Let's take a look at some of the documented people in history related to Yoga.

This legendary author of Yoga Yajnavalkya lived around 600 BC. There is a text on yoga in the form of a dialogue between rishi Yajnavalkya and his wife Gargi. He is the central figure in some early Upanishads, wherein he expands on the nature of Atman.

Sage Vashistha was priest to King Dashratha and preceptor of Lord Rama. He imparted spiritual knowledge to the sons of Kings Dashratha in a series of discourses. These appear in the “Yoga Vasishtha Maharamayana” composed by Valmiki as an appendage to the Ramayana.

Alexander invaded India in 326 BC. The Greeks for the first time saw yogis and were impressed with their ascetic practices, when summoned one yogi refused to meet Alexander as he (the yogi) was having his sunbath. Alexander negotiated with one of them to accompany him back to Greece.

Patanjali lived earlier than 2nd century BC. Near Taxila. He compiled the existing material on Yoga and systematized it into ‘Yoga Sutras’. He also composed the ‘Mahabhasya’, a treatise on Panini’s grammar and the present form of ‘ Charaka Samhita’, the text of Ayurveda.

The Chinese monk and traveller Hsuan Tsang came to India in 631 AD and stayed for some 14 years studying Sanskrit language and Buddhist Philosophy. He collected several books during his stay in India. He visited the Kumbha Mela at Allahabad and met many yogis. He later compiled his impressions during his stay in India and translated it along with other literature into Chinese.

The great philosopher was born on an island in river Yamuna. Around the 7th century AD, Vyasa wrote the earliest and best commentary on the Yoga Sutras. He classified four vedas and wrote 18 Puranas. He is the author the great epic Mahabharatha.

Asana is understood as that which is performed within a defined space. ‘It is the manner of sitting or the seat whereon one sits’ says Vachaspati Mishra, an early proponent of Samkhya Yoga. The great Indian philosopher Vachaspati Mishra lived in the 9th century AD. He wrote commentaries on the Yoga Sutras, Brahma Sutras and Bhagavad Gita. The commentary on Brahma Sutras is named Bhamati after his wife.

Yogi Gorakhnath lived in the 10th century AD, practiced and taught Hatha yoga in its pure form. He established many mutts (temples) of Nath Yogis and wrote several Hatha yoga texts.

The Persian writer Alberuni came to India in 1017 AD and stayed for 13 years, studying Indian religion. science, literature and philosophy. He wrote several works based on this study including a translation and commentary on Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras in Arabic. It is called Kitab-e-Patanjali.

Marco Polo (1254-1324) is probably the most famous westerner who traveled on the silk route. His journey through Asia lasted 24 years. He was only 17 years of age when he embarked upon his journey with his father and uncle. Marco Polo became a confidant of Mughal King - Kublai Khan - who ruled China then. He was a gifted linguist and a keen observer. During his travel through North India, he admired the techniques of Yoga when he saw yogis in meditation and other yogic postures who looked very serene and poised.

Born in 1615 AD, eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan, and was heir apparent to the throne of Delhi. He studied Sufism as well as ancient Indian scriptures. He translated the Yoga Vashitha, Ramayana, Bhagavadgita and 52 Upanishads into Persian. He synthesized and transcended the apparently different faiths. Dara Shikoh was later executed by his younger brother Aurangzeb who later ascended to the throne of Delhi.

Paramahamsa Madhavadasji (1798-1924) was the revered guru of Shri Yogendraji. He followed the Bhakti tradition of Chaitanya but was also interested to know the other tradition of yoga, and to that and he travelled the country 11 times by foot, during the 19th century. He had a fine intuition about the future of yoga and after many years of search, finally chose Manibhai Haribhai Desai, (now known as Shri Yogendraji) to carry the torch of Yoga to the world. Paramahamsa Madhavdasji was master of several traditions of Yoga. His great work in Yoga continues to this day. He lived a full 123 years. The ashram and final resting place of Paramahamsa Madhavadasji are on the banks of river Narmada at Malsar, where he lived as a Karma Yogi. During his long life Paramahamsa Madhavadasji selected just 3 pupils for learning Hatha Yoga, amongst whom was Shri Yogendraji.

Austrian neurologist and the founder of modern psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud himself had numerous psychological disorders. In 1927 he confessed to Felix Valyi (Professor of Philosophy) that it was too late for him (Freud) to study Yoga. He added that had he studied Yoga earlier, he would have been much happier person.

Illustrated here are some of the yoga devotees. Top: Meera, Purdas, Gyaneshwar, Gora-Kumbhar. Bottom: Eknath, Narsi Mehta, Ramdev, Namdev, Tulsidas, Tukaram, Savta Mali, Kabir.

The Yoga Institute's publications preserved in the Crypt of Civilization (1940) The Yoga Institute

'Crypt of Civilization' 

Crypt was one of the greatest historical projects conceived by Dr. Thornwell Jacobs, then President of the Oglethorpe University, Atlanta, Georgia. According to the Guinness Book of World Records (New York, 1990) Crypt of Civilization is the first successful attempt to bury a record for any future inhabitants. Out of the 700 books selected by a panel of eminent judges from millions of books available for selection, only a few were selected from India, out of which 4 books from The Yoga Institute were included in the Crypt of Civilization. 

More than half a century ago, detailed plans were executed at Oglethorpe University, then on the outskirts of Atlanta, to build an extraordinary time capsule designed to store records for more than six thousand years. Done on an epic scale never before conceived, the result was the Oglethorpe Atlanta Crypt of Civilization, “the first successful attempt to bury a record for any future inhabitants." The visionary of this improbable quest was Dr. Thornwell Jacobs (1877-1956), who has been called “the father of the modern time capsule.” Jacobs was a remarkable Georgia educator, clergyman and author. In 1915 in North Atlanta he single handedly refounded Oglethorpe University. Formerly located near Milledgeville, the antebellum collage had perished during the Civil War. Jacobs was to be president of the revived institution for thirty years. While engaged in teaching and research at Oglethorpe, Jacobs was struck by the dearth of information on the ancient civilizations. In November 1936, in scientific American magazine, he explained at length an idea for preserving contemporary records for prosperity.

The crypt is stored in a massive chamber of 20 feet long, 10 feet wide and 10 feet high, filled with inert nitrogen gas to prevent oxidation due to the ageing process. Thornwell Jacobs envisioned the crypt as a synoptic compilation and thus aimed for a whole “museum” of not only accumulated formal knowledge of over six thousand years, but also 1930’s popular culture with contributions as diverse as King Gustav V of Sweden and Eastman Kodak Company. The founder, Shri Yogendraji’s work on Yoga also finds a pride of place in this unique time capsule. The chamber of the crypt was finally finished in the spring of 1940. The crypt will be opened in the year 8113 A.D., 6000 years later than it is buried. The Yoga Institute's four books preserved in Crypt of Civilization - Yoga Personal Hygiene by Shri Yogendraji: A detailed and authoritative book on Yogic practices for internal and external cleansing, poise and control of body and mind, non-violent, non-fatiguing physical exercises and breathing exercises. Yoga Asanas Simplified by Shri Yogendraji: This book presents a balanced course of simple yoga postures which are both traditional and scientific. Hatha Yoga Simplified by Shri Yogendraji: The ancient science of Hatha Yoga has been simplified in this book which deals with some important topics like respiratory activity, sexual drive and its control, brain and nervous system, skin and hygiene in general. Yoga Physical Education for Women by Smt. Sitadevi Yogendra: This book evolved after decades of clinical and laboratory research to suit the special needs of women. It outlines yoga psychosomatics for treatment of diseases like overweight, diet, sex, painless childbirth, neurasthenia, relaxation and mental health.

See the the personal effects of Shri Yogendra ji at Yogendra Museum here

Classical Yoga

The yoga institute, shri yogendra ji: founder of the yoga institute, what is yoga, initiating yoga for women: shrimati sita devi yogendra, centennial chronicles of the yoga institute, mumbai, a serene space for yoga, from the museum: the personal effects of shri yogendra ji, yoga asanas simplified, yoga & you series with dr. hansaji yogendra, the 7 chakras and kundalini energy.