The History of Yoga: From Ancient Origins to Modern Practice

Yoga, a practice that harmonises the body, mind, and spirit, has become a global phenomenon in recent decades. Yet, its roots stretch back thousands of years, woven into the rich tapestry of Indian history and philosophy. Whether you’re unfurling your mat for the first time or a seasoned practitioner, understanding yoga’s origins and evolution can deepen your appreciation of this ancient discipline.

At Ready Sweat Go, we’re firm believers in yoga. It helps in many aspects of life, including health, fitness, and mental resilience. We’ve been busy looking at its origins and development to ensure we know more about yoga, its practices, and its impact.

Join us as we examine yoga’s remarkable journey, from its earliest known origins in the Indus Valley to its current status as a worldwide wellness movement. By exploring this history, we’ll uncover how yoga has adapted and transformed over millennia while retaining its core essence of union and self-realisation.

Ancient Origins

As you might suspect, yoga’s origins go way back to ancient times.

Indus Valley Civilisation (3300-1900 BCE)

The earliest archaeological evidence of yoga-like practices dates back to the Indus Valley Civilisation. Excavations at sites such as Mohenjo-daro have unearthed seal impressions depicting figures in meditation-like postures. While these cannot be definitively linked to modern yoga, they suggest the presence of spiritual practices involving physical postures and meditation.

Vedic Period (1500-500 BCE)

The Vedic period saw the composition of the Vedas, ancient Sanskrit texts that form the foundation of Hindu philosophy. The Rigveda, the oldest of these texts, references ascetic practices and the concept of ‘yoking’ oneself to a higher power—ideas that would later influence yoga’s development. During this time, yoga was primarily focused on ritual and devotion rather than physical postures.

Upanishads and early yoga philosophy

The Upanishads, philosophical texts composed between 800-500 BCE, mark a significant shift in yoga’s evolution. These works introduced key concepts such as Brahman (the ultimate reality), Atman (the individual soul), and the practice of meditation to achieve self-realisation. The Maitrayaniya Upanishad, in particular, outlines an early form of six-branched yoga that includes breath control and sensory withdrawal—practices that remain central to many forms of yoga today.

Classical Yoga

The development and use of yoga continued apace, with texts allowing the practice to spread faster and more widely.

Patanjali's Yoga Sutras (c. 400 CE)

The Yoga Sutras, compiled by the sage Patanjali around 400 CE, represent a watershed moment in yoga’s history. This text systematised yoga philosophy and practice, providing a coherent framework that has influenced virtually all subsequent yoga traditions. Patanjali defined yoga as ‘the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind’ and outlined a practical path to achieve this state.

Central to Patanjali’s system is the Eight Limbs of Yoga, a step-by-step approach to spiritual development:

• Yama (ethical standards)
• Niyama (self-discipline)
• Asana (physical postures)
• Pranayama (breath control)
• Pratyahara (sensory withdrawal)
• Dharana (concentration)
• Dhyana (meditation)
• Samadhi (enlightenment)

This comprehensive approach addresses every aspect of human existence, from moral behaviour to the highest states of consciousness.

Influence on later yoga traditions

The Yoga Sutras’ impact on subsequent yoga traditions cannot be overstated. Over the centuries, countless teachers and schools have interpreted and reinterpreted its concepts and practices. Even modern yoga styles that focus primarily on physical postures often incorporate elements of Patanjali’s philosophy, demonstrating the enduring relevance of this ancient text.

Central to Patanjali’s system is the Eight Limbs of Yoga, a step-by-step approach to spiritual development:

• Yama (ethical standards)
• Niyama (self-discipline)
• Asana (physical postures)
• Pranayama (breath control)
• Pratyahara (sensory withdrawal)
• Dharana (concentration)
• Dhyana (meditation)
• Samadhi (enlightenment)

This comprehensive approach addresses every aspect of human existence, from moral behaviour to the highest states of consciousness.

Influence on later yoga traditions

The Yoga Sutras’ impact on subsequent yoga traditions cannot be overstated. Over the centuries, countless teachers and schools have interpreted and reinterpreted its concepts and practices. Even modern yoga styles that focus primarily on physical postures often incorporate elements of Patanjali’s philosophy, demonstrating the enduring relevance of this ancient text.

Moving into the modern era takes us to a place that most of us recognise as the yoga we see and undertake today, but even then, there has been considerable change.

Introduction to the West (late 19th - early 20th century)

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a pivotal moment in yoga’s history as it began to spread beyond the Indian subcontinent. This period saw a growing interest in Eastern philosophy and spirituality in the West, paving the way for yoga’s global expansion.

A key event was the 1893 Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago, where Swami Vivekananda introduced yoga philosophy to a Western audience. His charismatic presentations on Vedanta philosophy and Raja Yoga sparked widespread interest in Indian spiritual practices.

Key figures: Swami Vivekananda, Paramahansa Yogananda

Swami Vivekananda’s work was instrumental in presenting yoga as a universal spiritual practice compatible with Western thought. His book “Raja Yoga” (1896) introduced many Westerners to the philosophical aspects of yoga and meditation techniques.

Paramahansa Yogananda, arriving in the US in 1920, further popularised yoga and meditation. His seminal work, “Autobiography of a Yogi” (1946), became a spiritual classic and influenced numerous seekers, including prominent figures in the Western world.

Development of modern yoga styles

The early 20th century saw the emergence of what we now recognise as modern postural yoga. Key figures in this development include:

• T. Krishnamacharya, often called the “father of modern yoga”, who combined Hatha Yoga techniques with elements from Indian wrestling and gymnastics.
• B.K.S. Iyengar, a Krishnamacharya student, developed a precise, alignment-focused style that made yoga accessible to a wide audience.
• Pattabhi Jois, another Krishnamacharya student, popularised the dynamic Ashtanga Vinyasa system.

These teachers and their disciples played crucial roles in shaping yoga as a physical practice, setting the stage for its widespread adoption in the West.

Contemporary Yoga

You are likely familiar with and comfortable with the contemporary era of yoga, which has classes in all major towns and cities.

From the mid-20th century onwards, yoga experienced explosive growth globally. The 1960s counterculture movement in the West embraced yoga as part of a broader interest in Eastern spirituality. By the 1980s and 1990s, yoga had become mainstream in gyms, community centres, and dedicated studios worldwide.

The United Nations’ declaration of International Yoga Day in 2015 further cemented yoga’s global significance.

Diverse styles and approaches

Contemporary yoga encompasses a vast array of styles, from traditional approaches to modern innovations:

1. Hatha: A general term for physical yoga practices

2. Vinyasa: Flow-style yoga linking breath with movement

3. Iyengar: Emphasis on alignment and use of props

4. Bikram: A set series of poses practised in a heated room (my favourite!)

5. Kundalini: Focus on awakening spiritual energy

6. Restorative: Gentle, passive poses for relaxation

7. Power Yoga: Athletic, fitness-oriented approach

This diversity allows practitioners to find styles that suit their physical abilities, personal preferences, and spiritual inclinations.

The 21st century has seen a surge in scientific research on yoga’s effects on physical and mental health. Studies have demonstrated benefits including:

1. Improved flexibility, strength, and balance

2. Stress reduction and mental health benefits

3. Management of chronic conditions like lower back pain and arthritis

4. Potential improvements in cardiovascular health

This research has further legitimised yoga as a complementary health practice, with many healthcare providers now recommending yoga as part of treatment plans.

There is no denying that Yoga is a strong part of daily or weekly life for many people and has a significant impact on modern society.

Influence on philosophy and spirituality

Yoga’s influence extends far beyond the mat, shaping philosophical and spiritual thought worldwide. Its concepts of mindfulness, self-realisation, and the interconnectedness of body and mind have permeated various aspects of modern culture. Many people, even those who don’t practice yoga regularly, have adopted yogic principles of mindfulness and breath awareness in their daily lives.

The philosophy of Yoga has also influenced Western psychology, with concepts like mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) drawing heavily from yogic and Buddhist practices. This cross-pollination has led to new fields, such as transpersonal psychology and integrative medicine.

Integration into popular culture

Yoga has become deeply embedded in popular culture, influencing fashion, lifestyle, and language. Yoga wear has become a significant segment of the athletic apparel industry, with brands like Lululemon building global businesses around yoga-inspired clothing.

Yogic terms like ‘namaste’, ‘chakra’, and ‘zen’ have entered everyday vocabulary in many Western countries. Social media platforms are filled with yoga-related content, from instructional videos to inspirational quotes, further popularising the practice.

Yoga as a global phenomenon

Today, yoga is truly a global phenomenon, practised by millions worldwide. It has adapted to local cultures while maintaining its core principles, resulting in unique expressions of yoga worldwide. For instance, beer, goat, and SUP (stand-up paddleboard) Yoga have emerged as playful modern variants.

The global Yoga industry, encompassing classes, equipment, clothing, and retreats, has become a multi-billion-pound sector. This commercialisation has sparked debates within the yoga community about maintaining the practice’s integrity while making it accessible to a broad audience.

For an activity and ethos that spans thousands of years, it seems glib to boil down the history of yoga to a webpage. However, it is helpful to have an overview of the activity, showcasing its popularity and importance throughout the years.

Recap of yoga’s historical journey

Yoga has undergone a remarkable journey from its origins in ancient India to its current status as a global phenomenon. From the meditative practices of the Indus Valley Civilisation to the systematised philosophy of Patanjali, from the devotional Bhakti movement to the physical emphasis of Hatha Yoga, and finally to its modern, diverse expressions, yoga has continually evolved while maintaining its core essence.

The continuing evolution of yoga

As yoga continues to evolve, it faces both challenges and opportunities. Cultural appropriation, commercialisation, and authenticity are actively debated within the yoga community. At the same time, yoga’s ability to adapt to different cultures and needs has allowed it to reach and benefit a vast, diverse audience.

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of online yoga classes, potentially making the practice even more accessible. We may see further innovations in teaching and practising yoga as technology advances.

Encouragement for further exploration

The rich history and diverse expressions of yoga offer endless opportunities for exploration and deepening one’s practice. Whether you’re drawn to the physical challenges of advanced asanas, the meditative aspects of yoga, or its philosophical underpinnings, there’s always more to discover.

We encourage readers to view their yoga practice not just as a physical exercise but as part of a living, breathing tradition that spans millennia. By understanding yoga’s history, we can better appreciate its depth and continue to find new ways to integrate its timeless wisdom into our modern lives.

Resources:

Discuss evidence of the Yoga practices in the Pre-Vedic Indus-Saraswati Valley: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348757689_Discuss_evidence_of_the_Yoga_practices_in_the_Pre-Vedic_Indus-Saraswati_Valley

A Brief History Of Yoga: https://goomigroup.com/a-brief-history-of-yoga

Hatha Yoga Pradipika (15th century CE): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hatha_Yoga_Pradipika

Gheranda Samhita (17th century CE): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gheranda_Samhita

International Yoga Day: https://www.un.org/en/observances/yoga-day