What is Yoga?
योग (Yoga) — Union / Yoke / Discipline
Deep Understanding
Derived from the Sanskrit root 'yuj', meaning 'to yoke' or 'to unite', Yoga refers to the methods or disciplines used to achieve union of the individual self with the divine or ultimate reality. Beyond physical postures, it encompasses a wide range of contemplative and ethical practices aimed at spiritual liberation.
Yoga is one of the six orthodox (astika) schools of Hindu philosophy. It provides the practical methodology to experience the truths described in philosophical theories like Samkhya and Vedanta.
Core Principles
- 1Cessation of mental fluctuations (Yoga chitta vritti nirodha)
- 2Union of the individual consciousness with the universal consciousness
- 3Four main paths: Karma (action), Bhakti (devotion), Jnana (knowledge), Raja (meditation)
- 4A systematic approach to self-realization
In Practice
Yoga is applied through various limbs (as in Patanjali's Ashtanga Yoga) including ethical codes (Yamas/Niyamas), physical postures (Asanas), breath control (Pranayama), and progressive stages of meditation (Dharana, Dhyana, Samadhi).
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If you want a broader orientation after studying this concept, use our Faith Finder to review major practice families such as Jnana, Bhakti, Karma, and Raja Yoga.
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