History of Yoga

   While tracing about the history of Yoga it is known that it is as old as our human civilization. But concrete evidence regarding this statement is still unknown. The first evidence of ancient yoga practice comes from archaeological study of some ancient stone seals, this shows Yoga existence around 3000 B.C. The evidence of Yoga was also found in the oldest ancient text, Rig Veda( a composition of hymns). At that time the primary goal of Yoga was to cure people through meditation. This was done by religious meditator. Common people were unknown about benefits and techniques of Yoga. Yoga refers to the spiritual discipline in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. After the end of Vedic Period the scope of Yoga became more extended. Yoga was used not only to increase physical strength and flexibility, at that traditional era Yoga and Pranayams were also used for entire transformation of human being . This was done by deep meditation, contemplation and purification of thoughts with the help of religious monk. Siddhartha Gautam, the first Buddhist to practice yoga, get enlightenment at the age of thirty five.
   Bhagavad Gita is the holy book of Hindu religion in which various form of yoga practices are illustrated by Lord Krishna to remove the confusion of Arjuna. Yoga was originally applied to understand the world. Later, it's scope was changed entirely and used to focus self. Self- enlightenment becomes the ultimate Goal.
   Modern Yoga is highly contributed by Swami Shivananda. It is based upon proper exercise, healthy diet, proper breathing, proper thinking, relaxation and meditation. Now Yoga is very much popular in Western society. This is the root cause of globalization of Yoga.
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