Intro to Yoga’s History
The exact origins of yoga and how far back they date are unknown. Yoga has roots in various parts of the world. There are clear, visual depictions of postures and meditation seats in ancient hieroglyphics found in Africa. From Africa, there is evidence that the practices of yoga spread throughout parts Asia and Europe. Yoga also has roots in Vedic traditions that have come from different parts of the world and many practices have been influenced by the Vedas.
The word yoga from the Vedic (Indo-Aryan) Sanskrit root is yuj, which is the root of the word yoke, and means, “to join or unite.” One way to interpret this is that yoga joins the individual self with the divine, cosmic, universal self. In Kemet, that is ancient Egypt, symbols and pictographs were used to represent words and sounds through the script of Medu Neter, or hieroglyphs. There also is clear evidence that yoga was practiced in other parts of Africa, such as Ethiopia, that predate Kemet. The hieroglyphic inscriptions of what is considered to be the African roots of yoga translates to Smai Tawi, that is, “union of the two lands.” This refers to the unification of the physical and spiritual realms, or the mortal and eternal selves.
The history of yoga is an ongoing living breathing magical mystery tour of discovery and revelation. What we do know is that the teachings of yoga have been shared across cultures, and we have been given the gift of this beautiful practice. Various yoga practices assist us in understanding the essence of who we truly are. What I believe is important is utilizing this gift in our every day moment-to-moment spiritual practice. Yoga is an enduring, ever-evolving ever-changing practice. Appreciate the present moment and the reality that yoga has found you and you have found yoga.
Yoga is a philosophy and a way of life that is intrinsic to various traditions around the world. Yoga is not a religion. Yoga is not a form of Hinduism. Yoga is its own holistic, spiritual practice. Hindus who practice yoga are yogis who practice Hinduism. Yoga and Hinduism have an intimate relationship and—for this reason—various rituals, mantras, deities, myths, and stories from the Hindu religion may sometimes be used to explain the concepts and practices of yoga. The practice of yoga may enhance or influence a person’s religious or non-religious beliefs.
A yoga practice encompasses many things, such as being mindful of our everyday interactions with others, making healthy food choices, how we manage stress and tension, and increasing our awareness through meditation. It is a holistic approach to living and remembering our spiritual nature or authentic selves. A yogi’s practice develops and unfolds each day, hour, minute, and second.
The true meaning and goal of yoga is often watered down or lost in present-day teachings. At the same time, a sincere effort is being made to enhance and clarify yogic teachings and practices. We possess the necessary tools to live in greater peace and harmony, both within and without. Yoga is a developing practice that stimulates growth; it is not stagnant. Practices and teachings are able to withstand change or enhancements without becoming diluted.
Please read Part/Chapter I Introduction of Embrace Yoga’s Roots: Courageous Ways to Deepen Your Practice by Susanna Barkataki.
For going deeper into the history of yoga, you may refer to the following books:
American Veda: From Emerson and the Beatles to Yoga and Meditation How Indian Spirituality Changed the West by Philip Goldberg
Embrace Yoga’s Roots: Courageous Ways to Deepen Your Practice by Susanna Barkataki and Sonali Fiske
Roots of Yoga by Sir James Mallinson and Mark Singleton
Below are some resources you may review to give some background on the history of yoga and spirituality.
Other books to note about this history of yoga in America include:
The Great Oom: The Improbable Birth of Yoga by Bargain Price
The Subtle Body: The Story of Yoga in America Hardcover by Stefanie Syman