Yoga's Roots
What is yoga?
Yoga is an ancient practice, originating in Northern India at least 5,000 years ago. The word itself means 'yoke' or 'union' - referring to the union of body, mind and spirit.
In the West, we tend to think of yoga as just the movement and shapes we make with our bodies - the 'asanas'.
But yoga is much more than this. The eight limbs of yoga were devised by the sage Patanjali around 1800 years ago and provide a code for living a good and purposeful life.
Yoga is for everyone. Many organisations are working hard to make sure that yoga is anti-racist, accessible and open.
You can read more about the history of yoga and how it has been changed from its original roots here.
Where can I find out more?
There are many books and resources that discuss the importance of keeping yoga accessible and honoring its roots. Here are just a few.
https://www.brightonyogafoundation.org
https://www.susannabarkataki.com/blog