Yoga and its Relevance in the Modern Times
What yoga is
Explain the meaning, history and schools of yoga.
'Yoga' comes from the Sanskrit 'yuj', to join or unite. It is a science of living that works on the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual levels and helps with stress and self-control.
History: Indus Valley seals, the four Vedas, the Upanishads (goal: moksha), Buddhism and Jainism, the epics and the Bhagavad Gita. Patanjali codified the eight limbs (Ashtanga Yoga); the Nath tradition developed Hatha Yoga.
Karma Yoga, the path of action: work as duty, done skilfully and without attachment to results (nishkama karma).
Jnana Yoga, the path of knowledge: removing ignorance (avidya) by discrimination (viveka), through hearing, reflection and meditation. Raja Yoga, the path of mental control: controlling the chittavrittis by practice and detachment, using the eight limbs.
Bhakti Yoga, the path of devotion: selfless love of God in nine forms (navadha bhakti), which softens emotions and calms the mind.
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