A story of spirituality, colonialism, modernity, and capitalism – a story about us.
Yoga is now practiced everywhere – from Mumbai to Los Angeles and even in alpine huts. There is Yin Yoga, Power Yoga, Aerial Yoga, and even Beer and Wine Yoga. Yoga has long transcended its roots as a niche practice. It has evolved into a life philosophy, a healing journey, a form of exercise for some, and a highly lucrative industry. How did we get here? Does what we now call “yoga” – a series of poses, movement patterns, breathing techniques, and relaxation practices – still have anything in common with the yoga that originated thousands of years ago on the Indian subcontinent?
Cultural scientist and yoga teacher Gunda Windmüller traces the millennia-old history of yoga, detailing its transformation from a spiritual technique to a global phenomenon. It is a fascinating and surprising tale that encompasses distant lands, religion, politics, and money, along with the stories of individuals, charisma, suffering, and eventual liberation.
