Yoga is a mental, physical and spiritual discipline which focuses on creating harmony between the mind and the body through breathing techniques, exercise and meditation. The word ‘yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit word for union. Yoga originated in ancient India, and was later introduced to the West in the late 19th and early 20th century following the success of Hindu monk Swami Vivekananda. Outside India, yoga has become more of a means to achieve physical fitness, and for stress-relief & relaxation. But in Indian traditions, it continues to have a more meditative and spiritual core.