YOG, Not YOGA: Reclaiming the Essence of an Ancient Science

Let’s get one thing straight at the outset—it's Yog (योग), not Yoga. The westernized suffix “-a” might roll off global tongues easily, but it subtly distorts the deep, rooted philosophy that Yog truly represents. In Sanskrit, “Yog” comes from the root “yuj,” meaning union—of mind, body, and consciousness—not just a sequence of postures on a mat.

Here’s a glimpse into Yog as a holistic system:

• Yama: Ethical disciplines (non-violence, truthfulness, restraint)
• Niyama: Personal observances (cleanliness, contentment, self-discipline)
• Asana: Physical postures for bodily stability and readiness
• Pranayama: Breath control, seen as life-force regulation
• Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the senses
• Dharana: Concentration of the mind
• Dhyana: Meditation
• Samadhi: Ultimate absorption or enlightenment

To reduce Yog to just stretching or stress relief is like calling the ocean a puddle. It’s a living science—adaptable yet timeless—designed to help individuals align their inner rhythm with the cosmic one.

In reclaiming the pronunciation, we also reclaim its integrity. Names carry essence. Just as we honor original pronunciations in classical music or scientific discoveries, Yog too deserves its true sonic identity—precise, powerful, and purposeful.

Ashtanga Yog: The Eightfold Path According to Patanjali

1. Yama – Ethical restraints
   • Ahimsa (non-violence)
   • Satya (truthfulness)
   • Asteya (non-stealing)
   • Brahmacharya (moderation or celibacy)
   • Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)
2. Niyama – Personal observances
   • Shaucha (cleanliness)
   • Santosha (contentment)
   • Tapas (discipline)
   • Svadhyaya (self-study)
   • Ishvarapranidhana (surrender to the divine)
3. Asana – Posture
   • Cultivating stillness and comfort in the body to support meditation
4. Pranayama – Breath control
   • Regulated breathing to master the life force and bridge body with mind
5. Pratyahara – Withdrawal of senses
   • Turning attention inward, away from external distractions
6. Dharana – Concentration
   • Fixing the mind on a single object or idea to train steadiness
7. Dhyana – Meditation
   • A continuous and effortless flow of concentration leading to deep absorption
8. Samadhi – Liberation or absorption
• Merging with the object of meditation, transcending ego and duality

Image above is of Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, one of the most important gurus of modern yog, and is often called "Father of Modern Yog" for his wide influence on the development of postural yog.