A brief introduction to yoga history and philosophy

The practice of yoga philosophy is integrated with all the aspects of yoga practice. Its moral codes and ethics are based on a holistic system, not a separated intellectual or physical system.

Yoga philosophy is written down in the Upanishads and the Sutras of Patanjaly. These writings, much like the Christian Bible or the Muslim Koran contains the thoughts behind yoga practice. Perhaps these sutras are more akin to works like the Taoist verse of Lau Tzu. What yoga attempts to uplift both the physical body and to explore its full potential. Its practitioner is guided to develop a consciousness of being designed to reach maximum potential and harmony with our environment through gradual evolvement, starting with non-violent and gently executed breathing and postures, general care of the body and a process of self-study of scriptures. Studying under a master when possible is encouraged, but not necessary.

“If one ponders on objects of sense, there springs attraction, from attraction grows desire, desire flames to fierce passion, passion breeds restlessness then the conscience, all betrayed, lets noble purpose go, and saps the mind till purpose, mind and man are all undone. But if one deals with objects of sense, not loving and not hating, making them serve the free soul, which rests serenely Lord, such a man comes to tranquillity, and out of that tranquillity shall rise the end and healing of all hisearthly pains, since the will governed sets the soul at peace.” (from the Bhagavad Gita, translated by Arnold)