Yoga: A Mystical Religion Originating in Ancient India
Yoga is a mystical religion originating in ancient India. It predates Buddhism and Christianity and is less religious in nature. Yoga practice consists of eight stages: (1) Restraints, (2) Observances, (3) Postures and Asanas, (4) Breath Regulation, (5) Sensory Control, (6) Concentration, (7) Meditation, and (8) Samadhi. Samadhi refers to a state of mental tranquility, cessation of distractions, and transcendence from worldly concerns. Yoga has multiple schools—some emphasize self-cultivation and inner peace, others focus on physical conditioning. Medical yoga therapy uses various postures, breath regulation, concentration, or meditation to calm the mind and body, reduce stress, restore internal balance, and enhance the body’s natural healing ability.