What is Yoga?
Do You Know What Yoga Is?
A profound source of inspiration for us, we believe Yoga is not just a practice but a way of life. But where does this now-famous discipline come from? Yoga is an ancient practice aimed at harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit through techniques involving postures (āsanas), breath control exercises (prāṇāyāmas), and meditation.
The word Yoga originates from Sanskrit, meaning “to unite or integrate.” Rooted in ancient India, Yoga began as a spiritual practice to achieve enlightenment by mastering the body and senses. Early yogis believed that controlling the breath and concentrating the mind could lead to higher states of consciousness (meditation) and a profound connection with the universe, even granting extraordinary abilities. The first āsanas were developed to accelerate this meditative journey toward enlightenment, known as samādhi.
Over time, Yoga evolved, influenced by various traditions, creating new postures and diverse branches. These developments shaped modern Yoga, which is now practiced by millions worldwide. Despite its many forms, all Yoga styles share the same goal: to unify the mind, body, and spirit, paving the way for self-awareness, presence, and, ultimately, personal evolution. As Professor Hermógenes said, Yoga is a path to self-perfection.
Contrary to some misconceptions, Yoga is not a religion and can be practiced by people of all beliefs, anywhere, at any time.
“As important as the goal is, so are the appropriate means to achieve it.”
— Patañjali
This quote comes from Patañjali, the compiler of Classical Yoga, who lived between the 2nd and 6th centuries CE. He outlined these “means” in the eightfold path of Yoga, designed to unite the soul with the divine.
The Eightfold Path of Yoga
The journey begins with ethical disciplines (yamas and niyamas), followed by physical (āsana), energetic (prāṇāyāma), and sensory practices (pratyāhāra). It then progresses inward to master and guide the mind through three stages: dhāraṇā (concentration), dhyāna (meditation), and samādhi (absorption).
Yoga in the West
One of the greatest ambassadors of Yoga to the West was Paramahansa Yogananda, who brought its teachings to the U.S. and Europe. By bridging Christianity with Yoga philosophy, he demystified the practice for Western audiences, establishing spiritual schools and centers worldwide.
Another pivotal figure in modern Yoga was Sri Krishnamacharya (1888–1989). Though he never left India, his disciples—Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Indra Devi, B.K.S. Iyengar, and T.K.V. Desikachar—became influential figures in contemporary Yoga, each enriching the practice with unique methodologies.
Benefits of Yoga
From spiritual awakening to physical well-being, the benefits of Yoga are extensive. Regular practice can reduce stress, improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and enhance sleep quality. It fosters self-awareness, boosts self-esteem, and promotes inner peace. Choosing the right Yoga style depends on your personal needs and preferences, so explore different types to find what resonates with you.
“Meditate more. You can’t imagine how wonderful it is. It is far better to meditate than to spend hours chasing money, human love, or any other goal you can imagine. The more you meditate and keep your mind centered in the spiritual state, even during activity, the more you will be able to smile. I am always in this state, in the blissful consciousness of God. Nothing affects me; alone or with others, the joy of the Lord is always with me.
The same smiles are within you; the same joy and bliss of the soul are there. You don’t need to acquire them but recover them.”
— Paramahansa Yogananda
At Iná, Yoga is a rich and holistic lifestyle. It teaches us to grow in every aspect of our existence—from ethical lessons that inspire us to be better people, to breathing exercises that cultivate presence and self-control, to physical postures that strengthen and energize our bodies, and meditation, a journey of self-discovery leading to continuous evolution.
We hope this wisdom continues to spread and that more people gain access to the beautiful and transformative universe of Yoga.
Practice and feel.
With love,
The Iná Team