The word YOGA is derived from SANSKRIT word 'YOKE' meaning “TO UNITE”. Yoga can therefore be defined as a means of uniting the individual spirit with the universal spirit of God.
आत्मा का परमात्मा से मेल ही योग है।
Yoga is a discipline to improve or develop one’s inherent power in a balanced manner. It offers the means to attain complete self-realization.
The concepts and practices of Yoga originated in India about several thousand years ago. Its founders were great Saints and Sages But today YOGA, is no longer restricted to hermits, saints, and sages; it has entered into our everyday lives and has aroused a worldwide awakening and acceptance in the last few decades. The science of Yoga and its techniques have now been reoriented to suit modern sociological needs and lifestyles. Experts of various branches of medicine including modern medical sciences are realizing the role of these techniques in the prevention and mitigation of diseases and promotion of health.
Yoga is one of the six systems of Vedic philosophy. Maharishi Patanjali, rightly called "The Father of Yoga" compiled and refined various aspects of Yoga systematically in his "Yoga Sutras" (aphorisms). He advocated the eight folds path of Yoga, popularly known as "Ashtanga Yoga" for all-round development of human beings.
They are:-
• Yama,
• Niyama,
• Asana,
• Pranayama,
• Pratyahara,
• Dharana,
• Dhyana and
• Samadhi.
These components advocate certain restraints and observances, physical discipline, breath regulations, restraining the sense organs, contemplation, meditation and samadhi. These steps are believed to have a potential for improvement of physical health by enhancing circulation of oxygenated blood in the body, retraining the sense organs thereby inducing tranquility and serenity of mind. The practice of Yoga prevents psychosomatic disorders and improves an individual’s resistance and ability to endure stressful situations.
THUS YOGA HELPS IN OVERALL DEVELOPMENT OF AN INDIVIDUAL.
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