This essay explores the common origins of asceticism among three distinct traditions indigenous to ancient India – Brahmanism, Jainism and Buddhism, as well as demonstrates links between their meditation systems, both in practice and belief.
This research evaluates yoga’s historical development and discerns continuities and discontinuities within the practice. Prominence is given to changing attitudes towards physical mortification and cultivation over the period of 2,500 years. In addition to the exposition of the development of body ideals, this essay attempts to recognise and combine yoga’s substantial legacy with the demands of the present-day world.
