Yoga – The Ancient Science of Body, Mind, and Soul
Yoga is not just a form of exercise—it is an art of living a balanced, healthy, and disease-free life. It’s a science that connects the body, mind, and soul with the divine, promoting harmony between the physical and spiritual realms.
The Origin and History of Yoga
The exact origin of yoga is difficult to determine, but references to it can be found in all four Vedas—India’s oldest scriptures:
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Rigveda – Focuses on meditation and spiritual practice
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Yajurveda – Describes discipline and the concept of Yagna (sacrifice)
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Samaveda – Emphasizes devotion and meditation through music
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Atharvaveda – Talks about health and the importance of pranayama (breath control)
Our ancient texts, including the Bhagavad Gita (which elaborates on Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Gyan Yoga, and Dhyan Yoga as taught by Lord Krishna) and Maharishi Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra (which introduces Ashtanga Yoga), provide the foundation for yogic philosophy.
Historians believe that yoga originated nearly 5,000–6,000 years ago, and archaeological evidence from the Indus Valley Civilization—depicting yoga postures on seals—supports this theory.
The Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga (Patanjali Yoga Sutra)
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Yama (Social Discipline)
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Ahimsa – Non-violence
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Satya – Truthfulness
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Asteya – Non-stealing
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Brahmacharya – Self-control
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Aparigraha – Non-possessiveness
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Niyama (Self Discipline)
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Saucha – Cleanliness
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Santosha – Contentment
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Tapas – Self-discipline
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Swadhyaya – Self-study
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Ishwar Pranidhan – Surrender to God
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Asana (Posture)
Yoga postures like Tadasana, Bhujangasana, and Pawanmuktasana promote flexibility, strength, and calmness. -
Pranayama (Breath Control)
Derived from “Prana” (life force) and “Ayama” (extension or control), pranayama connects the body and mind through controlled breathing. -
Pratyahara (Sense Withdrawal)
Withdrawing the senses from external distractions and focusing inward. -
Dharana (Concentration)
Focusing attention on a single object, point, or mantra. -
Dhyana (Meditation)
Deep meditation brings peace, emotional balance, and clarity of thought. -
Samadhi (Union with the Divine)
The ultimate state of spiritual consciousness—where one transcends ego and merges with universal energy.
Yoga in the Modern World
In today’s fast-paced world filled with stress, competition, and digital overload, yoga acts as a natural therapy to restore balance and peace.
While technology provides comfort, it often disconnects us from our inner self. Yoga brings back that connection—aligning physical health with mental well-being.
Important Yoga Mudras and Their Benefits
A. Hand Mudras
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Gyan Mudra – Joins the thumb and index finger. Enhances focus, memory, and inner calm.
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Prana Mudra – Joins the thumb, ring finger, and little finger. Boosts energy and vitality.
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Agni Mudra – Press ring finger under the thumb. Improves metabolism and digestion.
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Vayu Mudra – Press index finger under the thumb. Relieves gas, joint pain, and stiffness.
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Shunya Mudra – Press middle finger under the thumb. Enhances hearing ability.
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Jal Mudra – Joins thumb with little finger. Improves skin glow and kidney function.
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Aakash Mudra – Joins thumb with middle finger. Promotes spiritual awareness.
Main Sitting Postures for Yoga
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Padmasana (Lotus Pose) – Ideal for meditation and pranayama.
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Siddhasana (Accomplished Pose) – Keeps the spine straight and strengthens focus.
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Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose) – Aids digestion and relaxes the mind.
Benefits of Yoga
Physical Benefits
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Improves flexibility, posture, and strength
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Enhances digestion and metabolism
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Helps in weight management
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Boosts circulation and immunity
2. Mental Benefits
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Reduces stress and anxiety
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Enhances concentration and mental clarity
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Promotes inner peace and happiness
3. Spiritual Benefits
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Awakens chakras (energy centers)
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Connects the individual with universal consciousness
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Cultivates gratitude and self-awareness
4. Emotional Benefits
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Calms emotional turbulence
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Improves mood and emotional intelligence
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Strengthens connection with self and others
Yoga is not just about bending your body—it’s about expanding your consciousness.
In every breath, it teaches balance; in every pose, it brings awareness. Practicing yoga daily can transform your physical health, mental stability, and spiritual growth—helping you lead a more peaceful and meaningful life.
Current Situation in India (2025)
According to a recent ICMR report, there has been a noticeable rise in H3N2 flu cases across India between July and September 2025. Alongside H3N2, cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are also increasing, particularly among children and elderly individuals.
Health authorities continue to advise precautions such as vaccination, mask-wearing in crowded areas, and maintaining good hygiene practices.
H3N2 flu can be uncomfortable, but with early care, preventive habits, and a strong immune system, recovery is quick and complications can be avoided. Always consult your healthcare provider if symptoms become severe or persist longer than usual.