Seals discovered dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300-11700 B.C.E.) show figures in meditative postures, which researchers believe represent the earliest forms of yoga. Archaeologist Gregory Possehl looked at 16 different “yogi glyptics” and deduced that they may represent both human and divine figures. Later, the practices of yoga appeared in the Brahmanas (900-500 B.C.E.), commentaries on the Vedas, Hinduism’s oldest scriptures.However, yoga does not necessarily have to be a religious practice, or even be tied to Hinduism. Similar techniques have also been discussed in Buddhist texts, and were even said to have existed before the Buddha. The term “yoga” first appeared in the Katha Upanishad, describing the act of controlling the senses in order to reach a higher state. Considering the wide adaptability of yoga, what that “higher state” is exactly can differ based on the religious beliefs (or lack thereof) of the yoga practitioner. In its simplest form, it might mean a higher level of healthsee the page “Benefits of Yoga” for more information on how yoga can improve your life.

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