The Original Yoga, as taught by Yogi Maharaj, is rooted in the direct and classical teachings of the “Great Initiator” – the Adi Yogi, also known as the First Yogi. While modern researchers trace the practice of Yoga back to the B.C. era, ancient Classical Yoga texts claim that it has been taught since time immemorial, millions of years ago. The Adi Yogi imparted this knowledge to the Mystics, who then passed it on to their students.
The Adi Yogi, with his discernment, chooses individuals to spread the Light and Truth of Yoga. He can appear and guide the Yogi Master exoterically and esoterically, if he so desires. He can also guide anyone he wishes on this Path, including householders and students. The Adi Yogi can connect with individuals at any level of consciousness. His original Yogic techniques were kept secret for millennia and were revealed by Masters centuries ago. Over time, these teachings became hidden and lost, but now they are being rekindled, and the lost knowledge is being awakened. It is these original techniques that Yogi Maharaj teaches in his Classical Yoga Class.
The First Yogi, often referred to as the Precious and Beloved Teacher, is the Great Teacher whose subtle presence can be found in all yogic practices. He assists anyone who embarks on this Path, whether their goal is achieving samadhi or simply improving physical fitness. We are guided by right action through our intentions and actions. Every student of Yoga has the potential to become a teacher, not only to others but also to themselves. Like the seed of an oak tree, every student has the potentiality to grow and evolve. Yogi Maharaj wishes love, light, and a peaceful life journey for all.
Yogi Maharaj’s Original Yoga is a deliberate choice to teach only the pure, original, and unadulterated teachings of classical yoga. It means that Yogi Maharaj teaches the essence of yoga principles as they were taught thousands of years ago by Yogi Masters. The word “yoga” is derived from Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language, and it comes from the word “yog” or “yug,” which means “to yoke” or bring together. Yoga also signifies “union” – the union of the mind, body, and spirit.
Originally, the goal of yoga practice was to achieve the state of Samadhi, or self-realization, which represents enlightenment, nirvana, and super-consciousness. Samadhi has various “types” and, at its core, signifies a change in the state of awareness. In contemporary times, people practice yoga for various reasons, and self-realization is not the sole objective. This shift is due to the evolving nature of the subject and its audience.
Today, many individuals practice yoga to enjoy the benefits it offers to their overall well-being, both mentally and physically. In the classical era, yoga was taught under the guidance of a Yoga Master, either in a Gurukhala (school) with selected students or in the natural wilderness. However, modern life has brought changes, and yoga is now taught to large groups of students in a single class. It is no longer a requirement for the student to dedicate their entire life to learning yoga. Regardless of its origins or how it is taught, yoga remains an attractive discipline for millions of people worldwide, who seek its practice for various reasons, including health benefits, without necessarily aiming for spiritual benefits like self-realization. While some argue that practicing yoga without the goal of self-realization is not genuine yoga, others disagree.
Yogi Maharaj believes that yoga is a democratic subject that appeals to a wide range of people.
