🌿 Unit 1: Introduction to Yoga – Notes
1. Learning Objectives
Understand the meaning and definition of Yoga.
Explain the importance and scope of Yoga.
Learn the aims and objectives of Yoga.
Clear misconceptions about Yoga.
Explore various forms (schools) of Yoga.
Recognize characteristics of a Yoga practitioner.
2. Introduction
Yoga is a holistic science for body, mind, and soul.
It improves physical and mental health, intellect, character, and behavior.
Rooted in Yama-Niyama (ethical disciplines).
Now included in curricula worldwide due to its growing importance.
3. Concept of Yoga
3.1 Meaning:
Sanskrit root: ‘Yuj’ = to join/unite.
Yoga = union of body, mind, and spirit.
Begins within the body and extends to the cosmos.
Ultimate goal: realization of the Self and unity with Universal Consciousness.
3.2 Definitions:
Yog-Vasistha Ramayana: Equilibrium between soul and universal soul.
Maha-Nirvan Tantra: Union of individual and universal soul.
Bhagavad Gita:
o Equanimity is Yoga.
o Skill in action is Yoga.
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra: Restraint of mental modifications (Chitta Vritti Nirodhah).
4. Importance of Yoga
Provides permanent peace and happiness.
Effective against psycho-somatic diseases like diabetes, asthma, hypertension.
Enhances concentration, memory, analytical ability.
Develops virtues like non-violence, truth, honesty, and tolerance.
A path to spiritual realization and self-unfoldment.
5. Scope of Yoga
Extends beyond Asana, Pranayama, Dhyana, etc.
Includes physical, mental, moral, spiritual, social, and environmental education.
Applied in:
o Therapy (alternative medicine).
o Corporate, sports, arts, etc.
CBSE mandates Yoga in school curricula (2 periods/week).
6. Aims and Objectives
Achieve mental peace and reduce stress.
Balance body-mind-soul.
Discover and manifest inner talents.
Promote health and immunity.
Cleanse body internally.
Transform mundane life into divine living.
Attain Self-realization and liberation (Moksha).
7. Misconceptions about Yoga
1. Yoga = only Asanas/Pranayama/Meditation.
2. Yoga is religious (Hinduism).
3. Yoga is for hermits, not householders.
4. Yoga needs a Guru always.
5. Yoga demands vegetarianism.
6. Yoga requires celibacy.
7. Yoga is only for flexible youth.
8. Yoga requires rich diet.
9. Yoga can’t be discontinued.
Clarifications:
Yoga is universal, secular, and holistic.
Can be practised by all, regardless of diet or age.
Can be self-taught carefully if no Guru is available.
Emphasizes awareness and discipline over rigidity.
8. Forms (Schools) of Yoga
According to Bhagavad Gita:
1. Jnana Yoga – Path of knowledge and Self-inquiry.
o Tools: Viveka, Vairagya, Sat-Sampatti, Mumukshatva.
o Methods: Sravana, Manana, Anudhyasana.
2. Bhakti Yoga – Path of devotion.
o Nine Forms: Sravana, Kirtana, Smarana, Pada-sevana, Archana, Bandana, Dasya,
Sakhya, Atma-nivedana.
3. Karma Yoga – Selfless action.
o Work as worship without attachment to results.
4. Raja Yoga – Path of mental control.
o Eight limbs (Ashtanga Yoga):
1. Yama
2. Niyama
3. Asana
4. Pranayama
5. Pratyahara
6. Dharana
7. Dhyana
8. Samadhi
Other Forms Mentioned:
Hatha Yoga
Laya Yoga
Mantra Yoga
Integral Yoga (Sri Aurobindo)
Non-Indian Yogas: Zen, Sufi Yoga, Eightfold Path (Buddha)
9. Characteristics of a Yogi
Slim body, glowing complexion, strong digestion, clear voice, bright eyes.
Cultivates moral, mental, emotional, spiritual traits.
Radiates peace, love, and spiritual influence.
Believes in “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the world is one family.
10. Summary
Yoga = union of individual and universal soul.
Aims at complete development: physical to spiritual.
Benefits health, intellect, ethics, and society.
Many paths to the same spiritual goal.
Essential for today’s stressful and divided world.
