yoga

The Vedic Samhitas contain references to ascetics, while ascetic practices (tapas) are referenced in the Brāhmaṇas (900 B.C. and 500 B.C.), early commentaries on the Vedas.^[15] Several seals discovered at Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300–1700 BC) sites depict figures in a yoga- or meditation-like posture, "a form of ritual discipline, suggesting a precursor of yoga", according to Archaeologist Gregory Possehl.^[16]

Techniques for experiencing higher states of consciousness in meditation initially had only a slight philosophical underpinning, and were unconnected with Samkhya doctrines.^[17] These techniques were developed by the shramanic traditions and in the Upanshadic tradition.^[18] An early textual reference to meditation is made in Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, the earliest Upanishad (approx. 900 B.C.).^[19] The Buddhist texts are probably the earliest texts describing meditation techniques.^[20] In Hindu literature, the term "yoga" first occurs in the Katha Upanishad, where it refers to control of the senses and the cessation of mental activity leading to a supreme state.^[21] Important textual sources for the evolving concept of Yoga are the middle Upanishads, (ca. 400 B.C.), the Mahabharata including the Bhagavad Gita (ca. 200 B.C.), and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (300 B.C.-200 B.C.).