Yoga has been around for centuries and continues to be a popular practice. What better way to learn more about this sacred connection between the body and mind than through documentaries? From historical films to modern-day masterpieces, these top yoga documentaries will delve into the ancient roots of yogic teachings and explore the powerful effects of its philosophy. Whether you’re an avid yogi or just curious about the practice, these documentaries will leave you with a newfound appreciation of yoga. From award-winning films that shed light on difficult topics to comedies that make us laugh, there’s something for everyone in this curated list of the best documentaries about yoga. Discover stories from around the world and experience yoga through the eyes of inspiring teachers and practitioners. Whether you’re looking for a riveting narrative or simply want to gain insight into the power of yogic philosophy, these documentaries will take you on an unforgettable journey.
1. History of Yoga Full Film English
Uncover the mysteries of yoga. From its roots in Harappa Civilization to its influence on modern science, History of Yoga: The Path of My Ancestors is a 6000-year journey into the origin and evolution of this powerful practice. Explore the Vedas, Jainism, Buddhism, Sufism, and Hath-Yogic practices from medieval times. Delve into the mysteries and potential of yoga as science unveils it in a new light. Unearth new depths of understanding through this captivating documentary, which brings ancient wisdom to life and shows us the power of mindful movement.
2. The Science Behind Yoga
It was the perfect setting for a Yoga Day Summit – the Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, India. Together with The Shift Network, we produced an amazing documentary series to celebrate the International Yoga Festival. We explored what yoga means to many different people around the world and shared inspiring stories of transformation. The documentaries capture practitioners from all backgrounds and locations, from a yoga teacher in Mexico to an acrobat in California. Each story shows how adopting a practice of yoga can change lives for the better. We also explored the history and philosophy behind this ancient art form and how it is being adapted by modern practitioners.
3. Yoga – The architecture of peace
Yoga has been one of the most popular and enriching forms of physical, mental and spiritual exercise around the world for centuries. Nowadays, with an ever-growing interest in this ancient practice, it’s no surprise that people are turning to documentaries about yoga to learn more about its history and explore its potential benefits for body, mind and soul. Whether you’re a longtime yogi looking to deepen your practice, or just getting familiar with the basics, these inspiring documentaries can give you invaluable insight into yoga and its amazing effects. From exploring ancient traditions and practices in India to examining the impact of yoga’s global popularity today, this collection offers an engaging selection of films that will leave you feeling more enlightened and inspired.
4. Film “History of Yoga” English – 44 mins
This captivating film, “History of Yoga-the Path of my Ancestors”, takes viewers on a 6000 year exploration into the beginnings, growth and development of yoga. After six years of research, filming and travel to 137 locations in 35000 km radius encompassing 84 archaeological sites, 37 museums, libraries, temples and shrines – 30 leading scholars have contributed their insights and findings to the project.The documentary dives deep into the ancient Harappa Civilization, Vedas, Jainism, Buddhism, Sufism and Hath-Yogic practices during Medieval times, alongside other spiritual doctrines. For those looking to gain a fuller understanding of yoga’s roots and its incredible journey throughout history.
5. Who Owns Yoga?
Witness the transformative power of yoga through some of the best documentaries available. From ancient spiritual traditions to the latest fitness craze, these films explore the impact that this age-old practice has had on people’s minds, bodies and spirits. From in-depth interviews to stunning visuals, these thought-provoking films will have you questioning your current approach to yoga and the ways in which it can be used to improve your health, well-being and life. Get ready to dive deep into the history of this timeless practice and see how its teachings have evolved over time. Prepare to explore how yoga has been embraced around the world, from India to America, and how it continues to bring solace and joy in our modern lives.
6. Who is PATANJALI & What is YOGA?
Are you ready to be enlightened? Dive into the fascinating world of yoga with some amazing documentaries! From ancient yogic practices to modern ideologies, these films will open your eyes and mind to the wide range of possibilities that yoga has to offer. Whether you are a beginner or advanced practitioner, there is something for everyone in this collection of the best documentaries about yoga. Learn more about the philosophy and science behind the spiritual practice, watch interviews with inspiring yogis, and uncover ancient teachings that will help you hone your own yoga practice.
7. The Yoga of Life – Documentary
Aspiring yogis can embark on an incredible journey to explore the wonders of yoga with ‘The Yoga Of Life’, a documentary that takes viewers into the serene beauty of South India, following a group of students as they undergo teacher training guided by mentor Shelley Tomczyk. Throughout this enlightening experience, viewers get to observe how each student’s own individual perspectives and beliefs of yoga evolve and develop. From the incredibly spiritual to the surprisingly mundane, this documentary is sure to provide an insightful look into the world of yoga that will both fascinate and inspire its viewers.
8. Yoga Bend It Like Britain BBC Documentary 2015
Naga Munchetty takes a journey into the roots of the ancient Indian tradition of yoga. In her 2015 BBC Documentary ‘Yoga: Bend It Like Britain’, Naga explores how yoga first began, and she looks at how it’s been adapted by different cultures to fit their needs. From India to Britain, Naga meets teachers and practitioners who share their personal stories of how yoga has transformed their lives. She also discovers amazing feats and the latest technology used to help practitioners improve their practice. This documentary dives deep into the many different forms of yoga, its history and its spiritual power, offering viewers an insightful look into this popular ancient tradition.
9. Why We Breathe. A Yoga Documentary.
Documentarists have long been fascinated by the ancient and mysterious practice of yoga. From insightful narratives to stunning visuals, documentaries about yoga are some of the most compelling ways to learn and be inspired by this timeless tradition. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or simply curious, we’ve rounded up some of the best documentaries about yoga that will leave you feeling enlightened – mentally, spiritually, and physically. The documentary Samadhi offers an intimate look at yoga’s origins and spiritual core. Through interviews with practitioners from around the world, viewers gain insight into the practice’s evolution over time as well as its philosophy of living in harmony with all things.
10. Documentary Film – Sivananda Yoga: Health, Peace & Unity – by Benoy K Behl
Swami Vishudevananda was a true revolutionary in the world of yoga, and his legacy continues to vibrate through the years. In 1957, he was sent out by Swami Sivananda with just 10 rupees and a mission to bring peace to the world through yoga. This started an entire organization that now includes 10 ashrams, over 30 centers around the world, and has trained more than 40,000 yoga teachers. His 60th anniversary is being celebrated as a true testament to his dedication to creating peace and harmony through the practice of yoga.
11. Empire of Yoga
A new generation of yoga practitioners are taking lessons from the past and exchanging ideas on how to make their practice better. One of the most important topics being discussed is Kundalini Yoga and Yogi Bhajan, which have left a troubling legacy that must be addressed in order for us to move forward. The documentary film “Kundalini Rising” explores this difficult issue in a comprehensive manner, allowing viewers to gain insight into how and why this cult of yoga has been so damaging. It also sheds light on the healing process that its victims must go through in order to move forward with their lives.
