“Yoga is not a religion. It is a science, science of well-being, the science of youthfulness, the science of integrating body, mind, and soul.” —Amit Ray
The primary goal of yoga is to create harmony between the body and mind. It is essentially a spiritual discipline based on a very subtle science. It is both an art and a science to live a healthy lifestyle. Yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj,’ which means ‘to join,’ ‘to yoke,’ or ‘to unite.’
According to Yogic scriptures, Yoga practice leads to the union of individual consciousness with that of Universal Consciousness, indicating a perfect harmony between the mind and body, man and nature.
Yoga surpasses religion, and its benefits range from physical and emotional well-being to contributing to global sustainable development and peace.
Yoga, which originated in India, is now practised all over the world. Many consider yoga to be the oldest defined self-development practice, dating back over 5,000 years. Yoga is widely regarded as an ‘immortal cultural outcome’ of the Indus Saraswati Valley civilization, which dates back to 2700 B.C. and has proven to cater to both material and spiritual upliftment of humanity.
Classical yoga techniques include ethical disciplines, physical postures, breathing control, and meditation.
Many companies recognize the value of yoga in the workplace, recognizing that relaxed employees are healthier and more creative. As a result, they support yoga fitness programs.
There are different types of yoga, with some focusing on moving through poses quickly (almost like an aerobic workout) and others on relaxing slowly and deeply into each pose. Some are more spiritual in nature, while others are purely physical in nature.
According to research, yoga may:
- Reduce stress, support good health habits, and improve mental/emotional health, sleep, and balance to help improve overall wellness.
- Relieve low-back and neck pain, as well as tension-type headaches and knee osteoarthritis.
- Assist people who are overweight or obese in losing weight.
- Help people manage the anxiety or depressive symptoms brought on by challenging circumstances in their lives.
- Assist people suffering from chronic diseases in managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life.
Yoga is not affiliated with any religion, belief system, or community; it has always been regarded as an institute for inner well-being. Anyone who engages in yoga can reap its benefits, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or culture.
Traditional Schools of Yoga, such as Jnana-yoga, Bhakti-yoga, Karma-yoga, Dhyana-yoga, Patanjala-yoga, Kundalini-yoga, Hatha-yoga, Mantra-yoga, Laya-yoga, Raja-yoga. Each school has its own set of principles and practices that contribute to the ultimate goal and objectives of Yoga.
There are no prophets, priests, holy temples, or holy books that are associated with yoga. All of the yoga practices mentioned in the scriptures are pure techniques or methods to reach your inner being. Yoga is primarily a tool for delving into the depths of our human nature and discovering and connecting to the mysteries of the body and mind.
The ancient sage Maharshi Patanjali, who (was the first known person who) compiled or established Yoga as a scientific discipline, defined Yoga as “Yogas-chitta-vritti-nirodha,” which means “Yoga is a way to overcome the various modulations of mind.” Because all humans, regardless of religion, race, upbringing, education, ethnicity, and so on, are endowed with minds that exhibit the same modules,’ the discipline of Yoga is equally applicable to all.
Yoga promotes physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It enables us to master our own minds. Yoga, regardless of religion, helps us to stay happier and more centered.
Described as a “holistic” and integral science of life, is a “unifying concept” that can benefit millions of people experiencing distress in times of crisis. It is suitable for people of all religions, races, and nationalities because it is not a religion. Yoga is a way of life.
Today, more than ever, the world requires music of peace and harmony. Yoga can assist with this. It does not start wars, build walls, or use violence. It is open to people of all races, religions, and cultures. It has the potential to bring about that unity.
Give it a try!