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The
word Yoga is perhaps older than the system if philosophy which goes by that name.
The oldest use of the word 'yoga', as found in the Vedic Literature (the oldest
Indian Literature, scientifically proved, written and compiled in the shape of
Four books) indicates a union of various things. This is derived from the Sanskrit
(oldest Indian Language) root "yujir", meaning to 'unite' or 'connect'. In later
times, however, another technical meaning came to be associated with the term,
and this is derived from the Sanskrit root 'yuj', indicating control of the mind.
Both the meanings seem to be fairly common in the Sanskrit language even today.
The word 'yoga' doses not denote simply a union; it is controlling and steadying
of the mind and body.
The Kathopanishad (another ancient Indian literature
book) defines 'yoga ' as "state of mind and intellect, which, when attained, makes
an individual completely faultless and unoffending". The qualities of a 'yogi'
('yoga' master) whose body shines with the power of 'yoga', are described as,
that disease and old age do not come to him. Further that his body becomes supple
and healthy, his mind devoid of greed and full of peace and satisfaction. These
descriptions show clearly that yogi is a person whose body and mind both become
pure by the practice of yoga. This fact can be experienced, though to a limited
extent, by every one, who practices faithfully, the physical and mental exercises,
under the kind guidance of a yoga teacher. Due to this fact, it is argued that
yoga is not for the chosen few or the superior few, but in fact, it can be of
immense benefit to everyone, learned as well as lay, rich or poor, who so ever
cares for his physical and mental health.
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