An Overview of the Gheranda Samhita: A Classical Treatise on Hatha Yoga
Journal of Ayurveda and Holistic Medicine May 20, 2025 Sukhdevsinh Kamariya, Sreekanth V M Sreekanth
The Gheranda Samhita, a classical Sanskrit text on Hatha Yoga, outlines a sevenfold path emphasizing purification, postures, breath control, energy control, sense withdrawal, meditation, and ultimate absorption. Rooted in Advaita Vedanta and Tantra, it advocates purifying the body as a step toward spiritual awakening, teaching the unity of the individual soul with universal consciousness. Its detailed explanation of six purification techniques aligns with Ayurveda and modern wellness. The text has profoundly influenced modern yoga, especially postures, breathwork, and meditation, and remains relevant for addressing stress and mental unrest by offering practical solutions for physical vitality, mental clarity, and inner peace.