EXPLORING YOGA: PATHWAYS IN INDIAN PHILOSOPHY

Abstract

Indian Philosophy is a vast and diverse tradition that encompasses various schools of thought, such as Sāṁkhya, Yoga, Nyāya, Vaiśeṣika, Mīmāṁsā, Vedānta and Buddhism. These Philosophies explore fundamental questions about existence knowledge, ethics and the nature of reality. The yoga system in Indian philosophy refers to a comprehensive framework aimed at spiritual, mental and physical development. It’s part of several philosophical schools in India, including Vedānta and Saṁkhya. Yoga emphasizes the union of individual consciousness (Ātman) with universal consciousness (Brāhman) through various practices and disciplines. The yoga system is one of the most developed systems of Indian philosophy, which constitutes an integral part of the rich heritage of India. It is an invaluable gift of the great Indian sage Patañjali to all, bent upon spiritual realization. The earliest authentic treatise of this system is Yogasūtra of Patañjali, which is divided into four parts, viz., samādhipāda, vibhūtipāda and kaivalyapāda. Some other important treatises of Yoga system are- Yogāsārasaṁgraha (Vijñānabhikṣu), Bālapradipa, Śivasaṁhitā, Hathayoga-pradīpikā, Gorakṣasiddhānta, Gheraṇḍasaṁhitā, Ṣatcakranirūpaṇa etc. Yoga has been regarded as very important for self-discipline in both theory and practices since Vedic times. The greatest contribution of Yoga philosophy is that it prescribes methods of self-exploration, the highest goal of human existence. Thus, in present times, there has been spurt in the publication of books on Yogic exercises and healing effects of Yoga all over the world.