The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit root yuj, meaning to yoke, unite, or join—referring to the union of the individual self with the higher self, or with universal consciousness.
Core Dimensions of Yoga
- Philosophy: Yoga originates from ancient Indian traditions (the Vedas and Upanishads). Patanjali defines yoga as “chitta vritti nirodhah”—the calming of mental fluctuations.
- Practice: Yoga is a holistic system of techniques for health, self-awareness, and spiritual growth. As per Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, it includes:
- Yamas & Niyamas (ethical guidelines for living)
- Asana (postures for strength and flexibility)
- Pranayama (breath control for energy regulation)
- Pratyahara (withdrawing from the senses)
- Dhyana, Dharana, Samadhi (steps toward meditation for mental clarity, deep concentration and union)
- Lifestyle & Pathways: The Bhagwad Gita defines multiple paths of yoga that meet people where they are:
- Raja Yoga – meditation and mental discipline
- Bhakti Yoga – devotion
- Karma Yoga – selfless service
- Jnana Yoga – wisdom and knowledge
Modern Understanding
Today, the world sees yoga as a practice for physical health, stress reduction, emotional balance, and spiritual connection.
Scientific research supports yoga’s benefits for flexibility, strength, nervous system regulation, chronic pain, and mental health.
Camden Prana 
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