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     The word "YOGA" originates from the Sanskrit and is derived from the root verb “Yuj". Yoga is a physical mental and spiritual discipline that originated in ancient Indian culture thousands of years ago.The Saṁskṛta root “Yuj” (युुज्) is where the word “yoga” originates. It means “union” and refers to the balancing of the body, mind, and soul. 

      Lord Śiva is regarded as the first Yogi (Ādi Yogi) and the first Guru (Ādi Guru) in Yogic tradition. Thousands of years ago, on the shores of Lake Kāntisarovara in the Himālayas, Ādi Yogi taught his seven disciples—known as the Saptarṣi—his profound knowledge. The ancient science of yoga was then disseminated throughout Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and South America by these enlightened sages. Riṣi Agastya was an important figure in the development of the Yogic tradition in India.

        Śiva in the Yogic Posture, also known as the Paṣupati Seal: One of the most significant discoveries, which depicts a three-faced, seated figure situated among animals in a contemplative pose. Scholars believe this figure represents Lord Ṣiva as the “Ādi Yogi” (the first Yogi), indicating the early beginnings of yoga.Many terracotta figurines from Harappa and Mohenjodaro show people sitting cross-legged, evoking traditional Yogic Āsanas (postures). These suggest meditation and breathing exercises.

        The depiction of the Paṣupati figure and the worship of Śiva in later Hinduism support the idea that Śaivism and Yogic traditions originated in the Indus-Saraswati culture. Mysticism, breath control, and body postures may have come from Indus-Saraswati culture.