The term yoga is rooted in the ancient Sanskrit word yuj, which signifies “union” or “connection.” However, this concept extends far beyond just physical exercises or body movements. Merely bending forward to touch your toes doesn’t capture the essence of yoga. At its core, yoga is about creating a deep connection between the mind and body. It encourages harmony with one’s surroundings, with nature, and ultimately, with the greater universal awareness. To fully understand this profound integration, it helps to look into yoga’s origins and how the practice has developed through the ages.

The origins of yoga can be traced back to the Vedic era, where its earliest mentions are found in the four ancient scriptures—the Rig Veda, Sam Veda, Yajur Veda, and Atharva Veda. As time progressed, the foundations of yogic philosophy became more prominent during the pre-classical period, especially in the Upanishads. Over centuries, yoga continued to evolve through different phases of Indian spiritual and philosophical thought. It has gradually shaped into the diverse and widespread practice we see today. In many traditions, Lord Shiva is revered as the original yogi—the Adiyogi—who first shared the knowledge of yoga with mankind.