Yoga, an ancient science of union and inner transformation, traces its roots deep into the spiritual land of the hinalayas. The word “Yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root “yuj”, which means “to join” or “to unite.” But beyond its literal meaning, Yoga is a powerful process that harmonizes body, mind, and soul, connecting individuals to the cosmic rhythm of existence.
Yoga’s Supreme Source: Lord Shiva, the Adiyogi
While today Yoga is seen globally as a wellness practice, its origin is far more mystical and profound. According to yogic lore, the first presence of Yoga on Earth was not a human discovery, but a divine transmission. The Himalayas became the stage, and Lord Shiva, revered as Adiyogi (the first yogi), was its source.
In yogic culture, Shiva is not merely worshipped as a god but honored as the originator of Yoga. Ancient scriptures and oral traditions suggest that between 15,000 to 40,000 years ago, Shiva appeared in the Himalayas in a state of supreme meditation. His energies and presence radiated something extraordinary—something that drew seekers toward him.
As Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev describes, people gathered in awe of the Adiyogi’s stillness and mystery. While most eventually left, seven dedicated men remained—those who would later become the Saptarishis (Seven Great Sages). They pleaded to learn this sacred science, but Shiva warned that the path of Yoga required intense preparation and discipline.
After 84 years of rigorous sadhana, during the time of Dakshinayana (the shift to the winter solstice), Shiva finally turned toward them. On the banks of Kanti Sarovar, near Kedarnath, he assumed the form of Adi Guru (the first teacher), and transmitted to them the complete science of Yoga.
He imparted seven distinct branches of Yogic knowledge, each one entrusted to a Rishi. These became the foundational systems of Yoga that survive in different traditions even today. The Saptarishis were then sent across the world to spread this sacred wisdom, making Yoga a cosmic legacy rather than just a regional practice.
The Spiritual Depth of Kailash and the Role of Parvati
Kailash Shikhar, now known as Mount Kailash, is recognized as the epicenter of Yogic knowledge. It is here that Lord Shiva, in his divine grace, first imparted the wisdom of Yoga to not just sages and gods, but to beings of every realm—goddesses, deities, yakshas, asuras, nagas, and even demons. It was a universal teaching for all life.
His first and most devoted disciple was Goddess Parvati, to whom he revealed 8.4 million asanas and 72 forms of pranayama, rooted in Vedic tradition. Over time, these were condensed for societal living—today, only 84 core asanas are commonly practiced, though the deeper systems remain preserved in Himalayan spiritual centers.
Initially, Shiva wished to keep this sacred knowledge between himself and Parvati. But her compassion moved her to share it with the world. With her loving persuasion, the path was opened for humanity to receive this divine gift.
The Legacy of Mahashivratri and the Himalayan University
The night Shiva initiated the Saptarishis is celebrated as Mahashivratri, a powerful spiritual night marked by planetary alignments that naturally uplift human consciousness. Staying awake with a straight spine during this night can significantly enhance one’s spiritual evolution.
The ancient Himalayan belt, once a part of Akhand Bharat (Aryavarta)—stretching across present-day India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, and beyond—became the University of Yoga and Spirituality. This region safeguarded the purest forms of Yogic practice handed down by Shiva himself.
Patanjali: The Sage Who Systemized Yoga
Centuries later, Sage Patanjali played a crucial role in shaping Yoga for the modern world. Known as the father of modern Yoga, he compiled the profound and vast knowledge into a structured form—the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. This collection of 196 sutras distilled the essence of Yoga into a practical system for inner mastery.
Today, the Yoga we practice globally—though simplified—is a continuation of this sacred lineage. Whether as a physical discipline, a meditative practice, or a spiritual path, Yoga is a tool for total transformation—uplifting body, mind, and soul.
A Call to Return to the Source
In its purest essence, Yoga is not just an exercise routine, but a cosmic technology—a key to unlock the limitless potential within us. It is a sacred path that begins with the breath and leads to the infinite.
Let us honor its divine origins and walk this path with reverence, awareness, and authenticity.
Aum Namah Shivaya.
Namo Adesh.