Meaning, Definition and Importance of Yoga

Meaning of Yoga

The word "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root "yuj", which means union. In its deepest sense Yoga is the union of the individual spirit with the universal soul — a long process which, according to the scriptures, may unfold over a lifetime or more. The tradition describes this union in several symbolic ways: the joining of the Ida nerve with the Pingla nerve, of the sun-channel with the moon-channel, of the negative with the positive, of Shiva (spirit) with Shakti (nature), and of the Mooladhar Chakra (at the base of the spine) with the Sahasrar Chakra (at the crown). It is also described as the union of the Prana Vayu (the life-current) with the Apana Vayu (the current of elimination).

Yoga is best understood as a science of experiencing that works for the upliftment of humanity — a path of inner growth that brings health and happiness on the physical, mental and spiritual levels. It is not merely a means of treating disease; it is a complete science of wellbeing, and the union of soul and spirit that it seeks is echoed, in one form or another, in every religion of the world. As taught by Maharishi Patanjali, Yoga is held to be the fastest and most effective way to reach that union.

Definition of Yoga

The classical texts and teachers define Yoga in several complementary ways:

• Maharishi Patanjali — "Yoga is the stilling of the whirlpools (modifications) of the mind" (Yoga Chitta Vritti Nirodha).
• Lord Krishna, in the Bhagavad Gita — "Yoga is skill in action" (Yogah karmasu kaushalam).
• Yoga Vasistha — Yoga is a skilful and subtle process to calm the mind.
• Maitri Upanishad — Yoga is the oneness of breath, mind and senses, and the abandonment of all states of existence.
• Yoga Bija — Yoga is the unification of the web of dualities.
• Brahmaanda Purana — Yoga is said to be control. …