Yoga (activity and religious concept)

In Indian religions, the means and techniques of training the consciousness for a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility and of attaining liberation from karma and samsara. It can specifically refer to systems of physical and breathing exercises combined with meditation practiced as part of the discipline of yoga to promote control of the body and mind. Yoga is probably of non-Vedic origin. Today there are many types of yoga. In the West, yoga is valued less as a Hindu theistic philosophy and more as an activity or discipline with mental and physical health benefits.