The Relation Of Yoga With Shiva

Lord Shiva is deeply connected to yoga and is often referred to as the “Adi Yogi” or “First Yogi.” In Indian mythology, Shiva is depicted as a yogi who has mastered the art of yoga and has attained a supreme state of consciousness.

There are several important connections between Shiva and yoga:

The Cosmic Dance: Shiva is often depicted as the cosmic dancer, Nataraja, who performs the dance of creation and destruction. This dance symbolizes the dynamic balance and harmony achieved through yoga.

Meditation: A Path to Liberation: Shiva is said to have taught yoga to his wife Parvati, enabling her to attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This highlights yoga’s role as a spiritual practice leading to self-realization and enlightenment.

Kundalini Yoga: Shiva is associated with the concept of Kundalini Yoga, which involves awakening dormant energy at the base of the spine. This energy rises through the chakras, leading to spiritual awakening and self-realization.

Yoga: Union with the Divine: Shiva represents the ultimate union of the individual self (jiva) and the universal self (Brahman). In this context, yoga is seen as a means of achieving this union, with Shiva embodying this union.

The concept of yoga is incomplete without Shiva, as the deeply hidden secrets of yoga have been revealed by Shiva, enabling yogis and yoga practitioners to reach the pinnacle of yoga. Even today, Shiva’s teachings in the “Shiva Sutras” and “Shiva Tantras” continue to inspire and guide yoga practitioners.