A History Lesson in Yoga
Everybody has their own idea of what yoga is. Some believe it to be an Eastern religion while others view it as a strenuous workout. Neither perception is entirely true because yoga is many things. Most of us know the 21st century version of yoga, but we may not fully understand the intentions of those who created yoga many, many years ago. If more people fully knew the foundation of yoga – from beginning to present – more people might be inclined to take up the practice.
One preconceived notion that people have of yoga is that is dates back to the beginning of civilization. In truth, there is only evidence to support the fact that it was developed close to the year 3000 B.C. Yoga poses were illustrated on rocks and dated closely to this year. However, academics suspect yogic roots began in Shamanism of the Stone Age due to the similarities between Shamanism and yoga. Both practices focused on the health and well-being of humans, while inserting some religious ideals within the customs that were intended to reach a broad range of humans. When first invented, yogic rituals were directed towards entire communities rather than used as a means of self improvement. Yoga