Yoga Videos

The history of yoga can be divided into several distinct eras, starting with the Vedic period. It is named after the Vedas, a collection of sacred hymmns that praise Brahman. This is the basis of modern-day Hinduism. Contained in the Vedas are rituals and ceremonies that attempt to overcome the limits of the mind. This is considered the earliest known Yogic teachings.

Next is the Pre-Classical period, which is considered to begin with the creation of the Upanishads, 200 scriptures that discuss the ultimate reality of Brahman, the transcendental self or atman, and the relation between the two. Around this time a link can be established between Hinduism and Buddhism by their use of yoga. Around 500 BC, the Bhagavad Gita ('Lord's Song) was created. A dialog between Prince Arjuna and Krishna, it contains the oldest known scripture regarding yoga.

Following this we enter into the Classical period. Around the 2nd century, an attempt was made to standardize yoga by means of the Eightfold Path:

• Moral code (Yama)
• Self-purification and study (Niyama)
• Posture (Asana>
• Breath control (Pranayama)
• Sense Control (Pratyahara)
• Concentration (Dharana)
• Meditation (Dhyana)
• Contemplation (Samadhi)

In the current Post-Classical period, we see yoga introduced into the west early in the 19th century. During the 1930's it was incorporated into a movement for health and vegetarianism, and by the 1960's Tracendental Meditation became popular. Today, methods such as Kundalini Yoga and Bikram Yoga are well-known. Yoga is used to promote good health, regulate pregnancy, and even as a form of exercise.