Yoga or meditation has been considered as a form of ritual discipline since Indus valley civilization. As per the Hindu literature, the Katha Upanishad, yoga is referred as a control of the senses as well as the halt of mental activities leading to a supreme state.

     Indian philosophy considers Yoga as one among the six orthodox philosophical schools. Patanjali is considered as the founder of formal Yoga philosophy. Patanjali’s yoga is known as Raja yoga, which is a system for mind control. Another version of Yoga is the limiting of the modification of mind. Patanjali’s writing is the basis of the system of “Ashtanga Yoga” which includes the eight limbs such as Yama, Nivama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi.

     Modern life is full of stress and strain. Yoga helps in complete transformation of mind and body. Hence its necessity is increasing day by day. The demand for yoga trainers and practitioners is surprisingly high in the current scenario. Yoga has many health benefits which include increasing flexibility and lubrication of joints, ligaments and tendons of the body as well as a complete detoxification along with excellent muscle toning.