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Yoga was invented by ancient Indian sages.

It is a holistic practice that unifies the mind, body, and spirit.

Over thousands of years, yoga has evolved into various styles and forms.

For an in-depth exploration of yoga’s rich history, don’t miss our detailed Yoga History article!

Yoga Invention Timeline

  • 5000 – 3000 BCE: Origins in ancient Indus Valley Civilization.
  • 1500 – 500 BCE: Yoga philosophies emerge in the Vedas and Upanishads.
  • 600 – 500 BCE: Bhagavad Gita introduces various yoga paths.
  • 200 BCE – 200 CE: Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras establish Ashtanga Yoga.
  • 5th – 10th Century: Tantra Yoga develops, emphasizing energy harnessing.
  • 11th – 18th Century: Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga emerge.
  • 19th – Early 20th Century: Swami Vivekananda introduces yoga to the West.
  • Mid-Late 20th Century: Modern yoga schools and styles popularize globally.
  • 21st Century: Technology revolutionizes access to yoga practices.
  • 2014: United Nations declares June 21 as International Yoga Day.

Facts known about Yoga Invention

  1. Indus Valley Civilization: Yoga’s origins date back over 5,000 years ago to ancient India.
  2. Sacred Texts: Early yoga concepts appear in texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita.
  3. Patanjali’s Contribution: The Yoga Sutras established yoga as an eightfold path (Ashtanga Yoga).
  4. Diverse Practices: Yoga has evolved into various styles and forms, catering to different needs.
  5. Global Popularization: Key figures and modern schools helped spread yoga worldwide, increasing its appeal.
Yoga

FAQ

Who invented Yoga?

Yoga is believed to have been developed by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India over 5,000 years ago.

When was Yoga invented?

Yoga originated over 5,000 years ago, but the first written mention, in the ancient Indian text the Rigveda, dates back to around 1500 BCE.

Where did Yoga originate?

Yoga originated in present-day India, specifically developed by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization in Northern India over 5,000 years ago.

Gladis is a certified mindfulness and yoga teacher by House of Om in Bali, Indonesia. She leads happiness experiments, a retreat that draws into modern science and ancient traditions to cultivate joy. She is a a slow traveler who likes to stay in one country for at least a month to fully experience the local life. She’s currently slow traveling Europe. On her blog, Happiness on The Way, you’ll find a collection of off-the-beaten-path places, wellness retreats, and thrilling adventures.

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