Yoga Philosophy and Education
HISTORY OF YOGA PHILOSOPHY Yoga is one of the Ṣa ḍ darśanas (six orthodox schools) of Indian philosophy. It is closely associated with Sā ṅ khya , but while Sā ṅ khya is theoretical, Yoga is practical , dealing with methods of discipline, purification, and liberation . ORIGINS OF YOGA PHILOSOPHY A. Pre-Vedic and Proto-Yoga Period (before 1500 BCE) · Evidence from Indus Valley seals (Pashupati seal) shows yogic postures and concentration. · Suggests early forms of śrama ṇ a practice, breath control, and meditation. B. Vedic Period (1500–600 BCE) Yoga appears as Vidyā (sacred knowledge): 1. Concept of Vidyā in the Vedas In early scriptures, spiritual realization is expressed through various Vidyās (forms of knowledge): Vidyā (Sacred Knowledge) Meaning/Contribution to Later Yoga Brahmavidyā Knowledge of ultimate reality → ...