The word Yoga originates from ancient India and is found in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. A
Sanskrit word, the language of ancient India has a literal meaning of ‘yoke’ from a root meaning to join, to
unite or to attach, think of the union of the Mind, Body and Spirit occurring. What is commonly referred to as
Yoga can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word ‘Asana’ which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses. Asana is only one of the eight limbs of Yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well-being than physical activity. In the west however the words Asana and Yoga are used interchangeably.

No one knows exactly how old Yoga is. It originated as long as 10,000 to 5000 years ago. It was passed
down orally and has gone through much evolution. The earliest reference to Yoga was found when
archaeological excavations were made in the Indus valley – an amazing powerful and influential civilization
in the early antique period. While many religions continue to want to make Yoga their own creation, it belongs to all of us. It has many facts that can be found in the Hindu and Buddhist faith, but the basic principles are universal and based on “the eight limbs of Yoga”, which can be found in all religions.