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Yoga Philosophy Origins


  • Vedic Foundation: Ancient hymns and rituals in Vedas introduce foundational yoga concepts.
  • Philosophical Depth: Upanishads explore soul (Atman) and ultimate reality (Brahman).
  • Spiritual Dialog: Bhagavad Gita discusses dharma, bhakti, and nature of reality.
  • Systematic Path: Yoga Sutras of Patanjali outline the Eight Limbs of Yoga.

The Eightfold Path of Yoga


  • Ethical Standards (Yama):
    • Non-violence (Ahimsa)
    • Truthfulness (Satya)
    • Non-stealing (Asteya)
    • Continence (Brahmacharya)
    • Non-possessiveness (Aparigraha)
  • Self-Discipline (Niyama):
    • Cleanliness (Saucha)
    • Contentment (Santosha)
    • Spiritual austerity (Tapas)
    • Self-study (Svadhyaya)
    • Surrender to the divine (Ishvara pranidhana)
  • Physical Postures (Asana): Prepares the body for meditation.
  • Breath Control (Pranayama): Regulates energy through controlled breathing.
  • Withdrawal of Senses (Pratyahara): Detaches from external distractions.
  • Focused Concentration (Dharana): Concentrates on a single point.
  • Meditative Absorption (Dhyana): Achieves unity of observer and observed.
  • Ultimate Liberation (Samadhi): Attains superconsciousness and unity with universal consciousness.

Yogic Concepts and Teachings


  • Karma: Law of cause and effect, every action has consequences.
  • Dharma: Righteous duty and moral path.
  • Samsara: Cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
  • Moksha: Liberation from Samsara, ultimate goal of yoga.
  • Chakras: Energy centers corresponding to different aspects of being.
  • Gunas: Fundamental forces (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) constituting reality.

Yoga and Modern Science


  • Neuroplasticity: Brain’s adaptability aligns with yoga's transformative power.
  • Stress Reduction: Yoga’s mindfulness parallels modern stress reduction techniques.
  • Quantum Physics: Yoga’s interconnectedness resonates with quantum physics’ non-duality.

Exploring Citta, Cittavrtti, Klesas, Samadhi, and Kaivalya


  • Citta: Mind or consciousness, comprising manas, buddhi, and ahamkara.
  • Cittavrtti: Fluctuations in consciousness, calmed through yoga practices.
  • Klesas: Afflictions hindering realization, overcome through yoga, especially meditation.
  • Samadhi: State of superconsciousness, merging individual consciousness with universal consciousness.
  • Kaivalya: Ultimate liberation, freedom from the cycle of birth and death.

Conclusion


In summary, yoga's philosophy, rooted in ancient texts and spiritual dialogues, offers a profound path beyond physical postures. By embracing the teachings of Citta, Cittavrtti, Klesas, Samadhi, and Kaivalya, individuals can embark on a transformative journey toward self-awareness, inner peace, and ultimate liberation. The intersections of yoga with modern science further validate its holistic approach to well-being and spiritual evolution.

The document Introduction to Yoga Philosophy | Philosophy Optional Notes for UPSC is a part of the UPSC Course Philosophy Optional Notes for UPSC.
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