Significance of Yoga
Synonyms: Pilates, Meditation, Stretching, Wellness, Exercise, Mindfulness, Physical fitness, Yogic exercise
In Dutch: Yoga; In German: Yoga; In Spanish: Yoga; In Swedish: Yoga; In Malay: Yoga; In French: Yoga; In Finnish: Jooga
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Yoga'
In Buddhism, Yoga encompasses spiritual and physical discipline, uniting body, mind, and spirit. It includes the three yanas and elevates cognitive processes through specific practices like visualization and mantra recitation in Esoteric Buddhist rituals.
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The three yanas within the context, known as maha, anu, and ati.[1]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) Yoga, in the context of Esoteric Buddhist ritual manuals, refers to a standardized sequence of visualization and mantra recitation, often used in the Buddhoshnisha Vijaya Yoga Practice.[2]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A spiritual and physical discipline listed among the eighteen great fields of knowledge, aimed at uniting body, mind, and spirit.[3]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) Through the specific methods of this practice, the minds of those who are deeply immersed in spiritual exploration, as well as their cognitive processes, reach a more elevated level of existence.[4]
Hindu concept of 'Yoga'
In Hinduism, Yoga is a multifaceted discipline encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual practices. It aims to control mental faculties, achieve self-realization, unite with the divine, manage health, and integrate body, mind, and spirit for liberation and well-being.
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) A mind-body practice originating in India, it is utilized as a health intervention. It influences nervous system regulation and enhances physiological functions including the immune system.[5] (2) An ancient practice that combines physical postures, breath control, and meditation techniques, explored for its potential cognitive benefits.[6] (3) It is a collection of body postures but total living and an eternal source of scintillating health and happiness.[7] (4) It is defined as the balancing of two opposite things or the cessation of mental modifications.[8] (5) A practice that offers profound insights into the Nadi system, particularly related to the Sukshma Sharir and Karana Sharir, and the awakening of Kundalini.[9]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) It is a renowned mind-body technique emphasizing postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to improve sleep quality.[10] (2) A discipline mentioned in the title of the International Research Journal of Ayurveda & Yoga.[11] (3) A traditional method of meditation from ancient India, with different types such as Hath Yoga and Raja Yoga, that explains about Shatkarma.[12] (4) This is an ancient practice involving physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, aimed at harmonizing the body and mind to promote health and well-being, as described in the text.[13] (5) Yoga is a holistic practice integrating physical movement, breath control, meditation, and ethical principles to promote overall well-being and has gained recognition for its therapeutic benefits on mental health.[14]
From: Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine
(1) This is a practice, and along with Pranayama and Rasayana Chikitsa, it is considered beneficial for the management of Rajonivritti.[15] (2) The practice of yoga is mentioned as a meditation technique, and is one of eight limbs in Patanjali Yoga.[16] (3) This is found to be one of the effective methods that can influence various bio-systems and can be used in schools to establish physical and psychological well being for the children.[17] (4) As an adjunct therapy to trim down the Ayurvedic drug requirement in non insulin ‑ dependent diabetes mellitus.[18]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Those who have achieved perfection and are capable of its concentration can perceive the triple world through penance.[19] (2) Yoga is described as the proper means by which the Soul, dwelling within the body, may be seen.[20] (3) Yoga is a practice mentioned as a way of passing time happily while waiting for someone.[21] (4) One of the eternal systems of knowledge or practice described in the text, important in achieving spiritual goals.[22] (5) A discipline that involves devotion and action, regarded as a means to reach spiritual truth and unity.[23]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) It is a topic discussed in the Upanishads, alongside spiritual knowledge and devotion, and the Bhagavadgita is compared to them regarding this.[24] (2) Yoga is a philosophical concept, and it is mentioned in the context of 'Concentration of the Mind', and Buddha has preached his renunciatory religion to the four castes on the basis of the philosophy of Yoga.[25] (3) A practice that seeks to unify the individual self with the supreme spirit, often requiring action, control, and meditation.[26] (4) Literally means Union; refers to the harmonious connection of one's self with the Divine Life through moderation and balance.[27] (5) 'Yoga' is derived from the root 'yuj' meaning 'to join' and signifies the means, skill, or method used to perform actions, emphasizing a state of union or equability.[28]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) The Brahma Purana details the mode of performing Yoga, aimed at contemplative devotion to Lord Vishnu.[29] (2) A spiritual practice mentioned in the context of Krishna instructing Uddhava on its performance, emphasizing the significance of spiritual discipline.[30] (3) In the context of the Matsya Purana, it refers to the spiritual power by which Manu was said to gather all seeds in an ark.[31] (4) A spiritual practice mentioned in the context of Hindu belief, aimed at connecting the individual with the divine.[32]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A spiritual practice aimed at union with the divine or achieving tranquility in the face of suffering.[33] (2) The path of discrimination and spiritual practice that Priyavrata adopted after distributing the earth among his sons and marrying his daughter.[34] (3) A state of deep meditation that Narayana enters, reflecting the spiritual practices of renunciation and introspection.[35]
From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha
(1) To the temperament of some, this is most desirable.[36] (2) Yoga is the path that enables one to master Kundalini-shakti and is described as a path to master Prana and the mind.[37] (3) The discipline or practice that leads to the union of the individual self with the universal self or Brahman.[38]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) It is a contemplative philosophy of the Hindus, rich, exuberant, grand and sublime, comprehending what is of the greatest value, best interest and highest importance to mankind.[39] (2) The joining of any two things or numbers together; has multiple meanings across different branches of art or science and various life contexts.[40]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The practice through which Lord Madhusudana resolves to intervene in the affairs of the human world.[41] (2) A spiritual discipline that empowers mastery over the senses and leads to union with the divine.[42]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Yoga is a practice that a Bhikshu engages in, alongside self-control and moderation in diet, to potentially attain an elevated status after death and ultimately emancipate his self.[43] (2) A spiritual discipline associated with two races descended from Janaka.[44]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) A practice that encompasses the spiritual discipline of Shri Vasishtha, which contributes to his power.[45]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) A philosophical school referenced in the discussions of the Anugita that contributes to its spiritual themes.[46]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) Translating to 'devotion,' it references various forms of spiritual practice and discipline present in the Bhagavadgita.[47]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) This is a practice that involves daily thinking about the two paths, specifically the path of the Gods and the path of the Fathers, and in which Yogins should be engaged in at all times.[48] (2) The terms Sankhya and Yoga here denote the concentrated application of knowledge and of works, representing two distinct philosophical or religious systems.[49] (3) The practice and discipline aimed at attaining higher states of consciousness and realization of the Self or Brahman.[50]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) Yoga is one of the two, alongside Sankhya, considered as mere Smriti, lacking scriptural character, and therefore having a different sphere of application based on a special kind of authority.[51] (2) Yoga, also known as Yoga-smriti, is a practice that is considered by some to be a means of obtaining perfect knowledge, as suggested by passages within the Veda and other texts.[52] (3) The practice or discipline that facilitates the union of the individual Self with the ultimate reality, Brahman.[53]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) This term represents a path with six parts: postures, breath restraint, sensory subjugation, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi, as a path.[54] (2) The discipline that integrates body, mind, and spirit, crucial for reaching liberation.[55]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A practice that may refer to Hathayoga, which is aimed at strengthening the body.[56]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) A discipline or system of practices aimed at achieving mental and physical control, highlighted as essential for the control of the mind.[57]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) Described as the firm restraint of the senses leading one to the highest path toward experiencing the divine.[58]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) This school posits that a divine being (God or Purusha) connects with Prakriti to facilitate the world's evolution.[59]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) An orthodox school of philosophy focusing on the practices necessary for spiritual enlightenment.[60]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Yoga is the discipline that the perfect yogi is a master of, representing a practice or system of self-realization and spiritual development, as indicated by the text provided.[61] (2) The term signifies a practice or discipline through which a beneficial outcome can be achieved, as mentioned in the provided text, and it is one of the methods for attaining a positive result.[62] (3) A spiritual practice or discipline that Krsna mentions as a means to achieve freedom from illusions.[63] (4) Spiritual practices that include physical, mental, and meditative exercises aimed at achieving union with the divine.[64] (5) A spiritual practice or discipline aimed at uniting the individual with the divine, identified as an aspect of 'You.'[65]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The practice of physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines that can lead individuals to higher awareness, but may not necessarily emphasize devotional service.[66] (2) A spiritual practice that aims for union with the Divine; however, it is indicated that it may not lead to the comprehension of devotional service.[67] (3) The practice of restraining the mind from sense objects and remaining indifferent to them.[68] (4) A disciplined practice aimed at achieving harmony of the mind, body, and spirit, often involving physical postures and meditation.[69]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Yoga is a difficult practice that is very difficult to perform in Kali-yuga, unlike kirtana, which is easily done with the lips.[70] (2) union, meeting, or connection; spiritual discipline to link with the Supreme.[71]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Attaining the dust of lotus feet causes a loss of interest even in the perfections of this.[72] (2) This represents one of the two types associated with Priti-rasa, and it specifically describes a state of meeting or coming together with something or someone.[73]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) This pertains to the practice and methods of aspirants, where certain attained states are considered secondary and preparatory.[74] (2) This involves eight members, and the Samyama is practiced step by step according to the different stages of the Yogi's career.[75] (3) A discipline with roots in ancient Indian philosophy, aiming for spiritual, mental, and physical well-being, often involving practices of meditation and self-control.[76] (4) A spiritual and physical discipline involving various postures, breath control, and meditation techniques.[77] (5) A spiritual and philosophical discipline from which the concepts of contemplation and meditation are derived, leading to higher states of awareness.[78]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) This is a practice that can be undertaken through study, which when combined with study, allows the Highest Self to shine, as indicated in the text provided.[79] (2) A state of engagement that involves discipline and self-control in the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and understanding.[80] (3) A term derived from Sanskrit, meaning 'to go to trance or meditate,' often interpreted as the science of joining the human soul with God.[81] (4) Different spiritual paths or methods practiced in achieving union or completeness.[82]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) Yoga fundamentally signifies union and is the Sanskrit ancestor of the English word yoke, implying a method for spiritual union with the Godhead.[83] (2) Yoga is described as the breaking of contact with pain, facilitating inner knowledge.[84]
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) A practice aimed at achieving unity with the Paramatma, encompassing various forms of self-realization and meditation.[85]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) This is a predefined combination of astrological factors.[86] (2) In the context of the Hayanaratna's completion date, it represents the sum of the ecliptical longitudes of the sun and moon, counted from 0° sidereal Aries and arranged in a series of 27 divisions, which is also the square of the month.[87] (3) The yoga is one of the components considered when noting the commencement of the year, forming part of the procedure of creating an annual horoscope, along with other factors.[88] (4) This is an astrological calculation, equal to the square of the month, which is then used in subsequent calculations for the lunar date and other elements.[89] (5) A combination of the moon's longitude and the sun's longitude, used in the calculation of the revolution of the year, and it is determined by adding the elapsed years multiplied by ten, less a two hundred and fortieth part of themselves.[90]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A planetary combination that affects the outcomes and characteristics associated with a marriage.[91]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) The practice through which one aims to merge limited experience with the Perfect Experience.[92] (2) A spiritual discipline in the Tantric context that includes body practices aimed at aligning the practitioner with divine energies.[93] (3) The means whereby Siddhi, in the form of Samadhi, may be attained. It encompasses various spiritual practices.[94] (4) Yoga refers to a discipline and practice aimed at realization of the unity of the self with the supreme consciousness or Brahman.[95]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) This is a path of devotion that the four great sages are permitted to be teachers of.[96] (2) The text defines Yoga as a concentrated effort and path to supreme happiness, specifically emancipation, and it is greater than all other kinds of knowledge. This practice is determined in the Shastras and is of two kinds, Jnana-Yoga and Kriya-Yoga.[97] (3) Another philosophical system in Hinduism that interacts with the teachings of the Gita and other texts.[98]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Meditation, a technique used in conjunction with Dhyana to reach an understanding of the Inner Soul.[99]
Jain concept of 'Yoga'
In Jainism, Yoga is a karma source, binding through body, speech, and mind actions. It involves internal energy ('Bhava vibration') and subtle soul-activity. Destroying karma through Yoga's power leads to liberation, as highlighted by Haribhadrasuri's paths.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The power of the sovereignty of Yoga, known to all, arising from the destruction of karma, causes amazement.[100] (2) A source of karma.[101]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) This is a cause of bondage, referring to the actions of the body, mind, and speech, which can be classified into different categories, and contribute to the cycle of binding.[102] (2) This practice, involving the body, speech, and the mind, is identified as the influx, acting as the conduit for karmic matter's flow into the soul.[103]
From: Gommatsara by Acharya Nemichandra
(1) This is associated with 'Bhava vibration', suggesting a practice or state related to internal energy or movement.[104] (2) Differences in vibrations within the soul-activity, imperceptible to the senses, which facilitate the entry of karmic molecules into the soul.[105]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) Spiritual practices or disciplines that may pertain to the aerial beings.[106]
The concept of Yoga in local and regional sources
Yoga, in the text, is a multifaceted practice for self/God-realization, encompassing physical, spiritual, and mental disciplines. It aims for union with ultimate reality, personal transformation, and liberation, often combined with Ayurveda.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) It is symbolized by the serpent, which suggests energy, transformation, and spiritual power within the context.[107] (2) Yoga is the path in which some attain the realization of Brahman, but in this path, there are many obstacles, and it is also referred to as Raja-Yoga, as the provided text indicates.[108] (3) The text implies that Yoga will come about through Bhoga, highlighting the author's concern about the lack of Bhoga experienced by his countrymen.[109] (4) The text mentions Yoga as renunciation, and that one must be satiated with Bhoga before understanding it, emphasizing the need for balance.[110] (5) This is a practice that aims to control Prana, and it includes methods to intensify assimilation and achieve higher states of vibration.[111]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) It is one of the forms which the reaction to ritual took.[112] (2) A traditional Indian discipline gaining respect worldwide for its integral and holistic approach, needing to be grounded in practical spirituality.[113] (3) A sophisticated approach to self-control, developed centuries ago, that attracts scientific interest for its potential to protect against chronic over-stimulation and the dangers of Future Shock.[114] (4) Based upon a deep study of the Yoga-sutras of Patanjali and allied Yoga literature and on her own experience, these talks on the various processes of Yoga are enlightening.[115] (5) This had developed Sri Aurobindo's poetic style by the development of consciousness, fineness and accuracy of thought and vision, increasing inspiration and an increasing intuitive discrimination of right thought.[116]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) It is an element of the Indian calendar, the sum of the ecliptical longitudes of the sun and moon counted from 0° sidereal Aries and arranged in a series of 27 divisions from 0° to 360°.[117] (2) The interaction between medicine and ascetic circles is also a feature of the assimilation of these materials into the Persianate and Muslim culture of South Asia.[118] (3) Yogas are a component of the calendar, used in chapter five of the Jagadbhushana, and are included in the rules for determining aspects of the calendar.[119] (4) Yoga is a concept used in the text to describe the time in the horoscope and the relationship between the sun and the moon.[120] (5) Yoga is combined with Ayurveda in the contemporary global market for wellness, and the practice of Yoga is the chief means to liberation, with the Yoga traditions in question aiming at liberation from transmigration by means of the practice.[121]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A spiritual and physical practice aimed at achieving union with the divine, yet unable to attain Sri Sanga.[122]
The concept of Yoga in scientific sources
Yoga, a multifaceted practice, integrates physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. It aims to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, manage various health conditions, and promote self-realization.
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) This is another type of physical activity, and it can be used to help with weight management after childbirth, along with Pilates and walking.[123]
From: Journal of Public Health in Africa
(1) This is a practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, and it has been studied for its potential to alleviate pain and improve overall well-being.[124]
From: Journal of Metabolic Health
(1) Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning union, has become increasingly used as an adjunctive therapy in type 2 diabetes, focusing on physical fitness, integration of body, mind, and soul through various practices such as asanas and pranayama.[125]
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The Herald Sun had far more mentions of yoga and meditation than the spiritual.[126]