Let’s get one thing straight: yoga is much more than mastering the impressive poses you see on Instagram.

The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means “to join” or “to unite”. In fact, yoga symbolizes the connection of body, mind, and soul.

Yoga brings you back to that perfect balance, a state of self-discovery where you feel one with the world.

From the ancient mystics of India to the global wellness studios of today, the main goals of Yoga are to find inner peace, gain strength, and bring clarity to our often chaotic lives.

So, why did ancient mystics choose yoga, and how did it become popular across continents?

Well, grab a comfy seat, maybe even do a little stretching, and let’s explore yoga’s journey from sacred roots to modern phenomenon.

The Origins of Yoga: Ancient Mystics and the Birth of an Art

Interestingly, yoga has roots that go way back; we talked about it thousands of years ago.

It all began in Ancient India.

In the misty, early days of civilization, before religions even existed, yogis in the Indus-Saraswati River Valley (around modern-day India and Pakistan) meditated, moved, and breathed in ways that helped them feel closer to the universe.

Shiva and the Saptarishis: The First Yogi and His Disciples

In yogic lore, the tale starts with Shiva, considered the first-ever yogi, or Adiyogi.

According to legend, Shiva sat in meditation by a Himalayan lake, emanating a peaceful yet intense energy that the seven sages, or Saptarishis, couldn’t ignore.

Eventually, these sages begged Shiva to teach them his secrets.

He finally agreed, and they became the first students of this ancient art.

They traveled across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, carrying Shiva’s teachings.

India, however, became the heart of yoga, where it would grow, change, and eventually thrive.

The Vedas and Upanishads: Early Scriptures

Some of the earliest mentions of yoga come from the Rig Veda, the oldest Vedas (ancient Indian texts), dating back over 5,000 years.

The Vedas are a collection of hymns and mantras used by Vedic priests, and they touch on early yoga concepts.

Later, the Upanishads (about 200 sacred scriptures) expanded on these ideas, describing more inward journeys of self-realization and meditation.

Yoga began shifting from rituals and mantras to a more internal, reflective practice to connect the individual spirit with the universal spirit.

Development Through the Ages: From Philosophies to Physical Practices

From 500 BCE to 800 CE, yoga began to take on recognizable forms and practices.

Two key figures of this era, Buddha and Mahavira, introduced new philosophical layers to yoga, focusing on peace and self-control.

Around this time, yogis started identifying three main paths to inner growth:

• Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge)
• Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion)
• Karma Yoga (the path of action)

The famous Bhagavad Gita, one of India’s treasured epics, was written around 500 BCE and further developed these paths.

In it, Krishna shares yoga wisdom with Arjuna, a warrior facing an internal struggle, explaining how these three paths can lead to inner peace.

Patanjali and the Eightfold Path

Fast forward to the 2nd century BCE, and we meet Patanjali, a revered sage often called the “father of yoga.”

Patanjali didn’t invent yoga, but he did organize and document it.

In his Yoga Sutras, Patanjali outlined an eightfold path called “Ashtanga” that guides one toward enlightenment:

1. Yama – Moral discipline
2. Niyama – Positive observances
3. Asana – Physical postures
4. Pranayama – Breath control
5. Pratyahara – Withdrawal of senses
6. Dharana – Focused concentration
7. Dhyana – Meditation
8. Samadhi – Enlightenment

While physical postures (asanas) are a big part of yoga today, Patanjali only mentioned them briefly.

Instead, his main focus was self-discipline and controlling the mind, with physical poses acting as a small part of the bigger picture.

Yoga’s Evolution: The Hatha Era and the Spread to the West

Between 800 CE and 1700 CE, yoga saw massive transformations.

This period often called the post-classical era, brought Hatha yoga, which emphasizes physical practices and breathwork to prepare the body for deeper states of meditation.

This was a turning point because people began focusing on the physical side of yoga, developing postures and breathing techniques that we recognize today.

Hatha Yoga: Embracing the Body’s Potential

Hatha yoga became popular among yogis who saw the body as a temple and a tool for achieving inner peace.

Teachers like Gorakshanath and Swatmaram Suri from the Nath tradition helped shape these practices, stressing the importance of physical health in accessing spiritual states.

It was also during this time that more practical yoga techniques emerged aimed at purifying the body and mind.

With these methods, yoga became more accessible and appealing, and soon, India was teeming with different yoga schools.

However, it wasn’t until the late 1800s that yoga spread beyond India’s borders and caught the attention of the Western world.

Swami Vivekananda: The First Yoga Ambassador to the West

In 1893, Swami Vivekananda, an Indian monk with a fierce intellect and peaceful presence, attended the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago.

There, he introduced Western audiences to yoga and Hindu philosophy, which ignited curiosity and admiration.

Vivekananda’s message of yoga as a “science of the mind” introduced a new perspective and resonated with intellectuals and spiritual seekers alike.

So, as you can imagine, his lectures and teachings were the first big steps in bringing yoga to the West.

The Modern Yoga Boom: From Ashrams to Mainstream Wellness

The early 20th century saw more yoga masters traveling to the West, teaching yoga’s mental and spiritual benefits.

Key figures included Paramahansa Yogananda, who wrote the popular Autobiography of a Yogi, and B.K.S. Iyengar, who developed Iyengar Yoga, a style that focuses on precise alignment and uses props to make yoga accessible for everyone.

Yoga Hits Hollywood and Beyond

In 1947, Indra Devi, one of the first Western women to train in India, opened a yoga studio in Hollywood.

Devi’s studio, with clients like Greta Garbo and Gloria Swanson, helped spark interest in yoga as a spiritual and physical discipline.

As Hollywood embraced yoga, it began to spread nationwide, moving from niche to mainstream.

During the 1960s and ‘70s, yoga gained even more momentum in the West.

Spiritual seekers, counterculture icons, and wellness enthusiasts began adopting yoga as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Today, yoga has grown into a global phenomenon practiced in countless forms, from the traditional to the modern, adapting ancient philosophies with today’s fast-paced lifestyles.

Yoga’s Core Practices: Not Just Physical, but Mental and Spiritual

At its core, yoga is about much more than postures.

Here’s a breakdown of some essential practices that create a holistic experience:

1. Asanas: Physical Poses that Ground You

Yes, the poses are a big part of yoga, but not for the reasons we might think. In ancient yoga, asanas were meant to prepare the body for meditation.

When you hold a pose, you focus not only on your physical body but also on your breath and mind, which, in turn, fosters awareness and stability.

2. Pranayama: The Power of Breath

Pranayama, or breath control, helps clear the mind and energize the body.

One of the most common forms is ujjayi breathing, which involves a steady inhalation and exhalation through the nose while slightly constricting the throat.

This creates a sound similar to ocean waves and helps calm the mind.

Pranayama teaches you to control your breath, which helps you manage stress and anxiety.

3. Meditation: The Heart of the Practice

Meditation, or dhyana, is where yoga truly shines.

It’s about focusing inward, silencing the mind, and finding that calm center within.

Whether you’re practicing mindfulness for a few minutes or aiming for deeper meditation, this practice cultivates a mental state of peace, clarity, and connection to yourself.

4. Mantras: The Sounds That Ground Us

Have you ever heard “Om” chanted in a yoga class?

Well, that’s a mantra, and it’s a repetitive sound used to help focus the mind.

It’s incredible how chanting can help clear mental clutter and bring a feeling of peace.

Other mantras include sounds and phrases like “So Hum” or “Om Shanti,” which yogis believe connect them with universal energies.

Yoga in Today’s World: Diverse Practices and Global Influence

Yoga has come a long way from its mystical roots in ancient India.

Today, there are over a dozen popular styles, each catering to different needs and preferences.

Here’s a glimpse into some popular forms of yoga you might encounter:

• Hatha Yoga: The classic, gentle style focusing on basic poses and slow movements. And it’s perfect for beginners.
• Vinyasa Yoga: A flowing style that connects breath with movement, often more fast-paced.
• Iyengar Yoga: Known for precision and alignment, it uses props like blocks and straps.
• Ashtanga Yoga: A rigorous practice involving a set sequence of poses; it’s challenging but great for building strength and endurance.
• Bikram/Hot Yoga: This style combines sweat, strength, and flexibility and is practiced in a heated room.

These styles show just how flexible yoga has become.

Whether you’re after a workout, mental clarity, or a way to unwind, there’s a form of yoga for everyone.

How Social Media Has Changed Yoga

In recent years, yoga has exploded on social media, where yogis post their journey, tips, and practices.

As you can expect, this exposure has made yoga more accessible than ever, but it’s also brought some unique challenges.

The focus on picture-perfect poses sometimes creates pressure to achieve advanced postures rather than embracing yoga’s true goal of inner peace.

But at its best, social media has created a supportive, global yoga community that inspires millions to try yoga.

Women and Yoga: Reclaiming the Practice

While the ancient roots of yoga saw men and women practicing, history largely documented the journey of male yogis.

In recent decades, however, women have become the majority in yoga communities worldwide, adapting and transforming yoga to fit different lifestyles, bodies, and needs.

Teachers like Indra Devi and, later, modern influencers have helped create an inclusive space for all.

Plus, women’s voices have helped yoga shift from rigid, prescriptive practices to more intuitive, personalized approaches.

This evolution reflects a balance between the masculine and feminine energies that yoga has always honored.

Now, yoga welcomes everyone, regardless of gender, background, or ability.

Why Yoga is Here to Stay

Yoga’s journey from ancient India to a worldwide wellness phenomenon is a story of resilience, adaptability, and timeless wisdom.

While yoga offers incredible physical benefits, its true value lies in its ability to bring peace, clarity, and connection to our lives.

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a curious beginner, yoga provides a sanctuary in today’s fast-paced world—a moment to breathe, reflect, and remember who you truly are.

And the best part is that yoga meets you where you are.

So whether you’re looking to stretch, meditate, or just find a bit more calm in your day, yoga’s always there.

It’s more than a workout—it’s a path to wellness, unity, and self-discovery.

Yoga, after all, is a way of being.

The New York Mets’ 2024 season was a thrilling success, with the team within two games of a World Series appearance.

With nearly $200 million in payroll set to be eliminated, the offseason promises significant changes.

This guide explores the Mets’ free agents, potential trade targets, and the offseason moves they need to make to strengthen their 2025 roster.

Recap of the 2024 Season

The New York Mets’ 2024 season was nothing short of dramatic.

What started as a problematic, frustrating year quickly became one of the most exciting turnarounds in recent team history.

After falling 11 games below .500 in May, the Mets caught fire, finishing the season strong with a 65-40 run over the last four months.

Their journey took them all the way to the National League Championship Series (NLCS), where they fell just short of reaching the World Series and lost in Game 6 to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Throughout the season, the Mets’ lineup was one of their biggest strengths.

Looking at their offensive stats, the team ranked sixth in home runs, seventh in runs scored, and ninth in OPS (on-base plus slugging).

And those numbers helped carry the team even when their pitching staff wasn’t performing at its best.

The Mets’ pitching ranked 20th in Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) and 22nd in Expected FIP (xFIP), showing that their pitchers struggled with consistency, particularly in the starting rotation.

Players like Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor led the charge despite these challenges.

Alonso’s clutch performances in the postseason, including a game-saving home run in the Wild Card round, were a major highlight, and Lindor’s leadership was crucial during their playoff push.

As the 2024 season fades into the rearview, the Mets face an important offseason.

With several players expected to leave in free agency and plenty of room for improvement, the team is gearing up for some major roster changes.

Areas the Mets Need to Improve in 2025

The Mets need a better rotation to go further in 2025.

While their bullpen showed promise—ranking 12th in FIP and 5th in xFIP—their starting pitchers struggled.

Even with plenty of talent in the lineup, New York’s pitchers gave up far too many free passes, ranking third-worst in walks allowed per nine innings.

Jose Quintana, in particular, had control issues, ranking 10th in walks per nine innings, while Sean Manaea wasn’t far behind at 14th.

Beyond the pitching, the Mets were average defensively, finishing 14th in outs above average.

At third base in particular, defense was an issue, though Mark Vientos showed some improvement late in the season, offering hope for better defense moving forward.

With a projected $176 million coming off the payroll, the Mets have plenty of money to address these issues.

Improving the starting rotation and adding depth to key positions like center field and first base will be essential if they want to build on the success of 2024.

Mets’ Key Free Agents: Who Could Be Leaving?

Pete Alonso is undoubtedly the biggest free agent the Mets are dealing with this offseason.

Alonso’s contract situation will be one of the Mets’ most important decisions, as he’s expected to attract interest from multiple teams.

The Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, and Chicago Cubs are among the clubs reportedly eyeing Alonso.

While there’s still a chance Alonso re-signs with the Mets, it won’t be easy, as he’s likely seeking a lucrative contract.

In addition to Alonso, the Mets are facing the possible departure of several players:

• Jose Quintana: After a solid but inconsistent season, Quintana is expected to test free agency. His high walk rate could deter the Mets from bringing him back.
• Sean Manaea: Manaea has a $13.5 million player option, but he’s likely to decline it, making him another free agent to watch.
• Luis Severino: Severino was signed on a one-year deal and may not return, leaving the Mets with another gap in their starting rotation.
• Jesse Winker, JD Martinez, and Harrison Bader: These players all contributed during the season, but their contracts are up, and they’re expected to leave in free agency.

Losing Alonso and these other players would dramatically reshape the roster, but the Mets have the financial resources to bring in new talent and make upgrades where necessary.

Trade Targets and Free Agents the Mets Should Pursue

With such a large amount of money coming off the payroll, the Mets are in a great position to be active in the trade market and free agency.

Here are a few names to keep an eye on as potential targets.

Pitching Upgrades

The Mets’ most pressing need is improving their starting rotation, and they’ll have plenty of options.

• Corbin Burnes: Burnes is widely considered the top pitcher available this offseason. At 29, he’s in his prime and would be a perfect addition to the Mets’ rotation. Burnes is expected to command a large contract, but with the Mets’ financial flexibility, they’ll be in a strong position to outbid other teams.
• Blake Snell: Snell could be a backup plan if the Mets don’t land Burnes. He’s a solid left-handed pitcher with postseason experience, making him an attractive option for teams needing pitching.
• Garrett Crochet: Crochet could be a key target if the Mets look to make a trade instead of signing a free agent. The young left-hander has two years of team control left, which would make him a valuable addition to the Mets’ rotation, but it would likely cost them some top prospects to acquire him.

Outfield and First Base Solutions

If Alonso leaves, the Mets will have a big hole to fill at first base.

The outfield is another area that could use an upgrade, especially with players like Bader and Winker likely moving on.

• Luis Robert Jr.: The White Sox center fielder is a potential trade target, though his injury history raises concerns. Robert’s power makes him an attractive option if the Mets are willing to take the risk.
• Brent Rooker: The Oakland Athletics slugger would add serious power to the Mets’ lineup. Rooker hit 39 home runs in 2024, and while acquiring him would be costly, he would help fill a potential void left by Alonso’s departure.
• Juan Soto: Though Soto has been instrumental in the Yankees’ 2024 success, the Mets are still linked to him. The deal could cost around $600 million, and owner Steve Cohen seems ready to invest heavily in star power.

Key Offseason Dates to Remember

• Free Agency Begins: Right after the World Series ends, trades and negotiations will heat up.
• Winter Meetings (Dec. 9-12): This is when many major signings and trades take place. Expect the Mets to be heavily involved.
• Spring Training (Feb. 14): The Mets’ new-look roster will start to come together when pitchers and catchers report.

What Will the Mets Do? Predictions for the Offseason

The Mets will make a huge push to sign Juan Soto.

Steve Cohen loves making headlines, and adding Soto would send a message to the entire league.

But if the Yankees keep him, the Mets will switch gears.

In that case, expect them to focus heavily on Corbin Burnes and Garrett Crochet to build a dominant pitching staff.

With Alonso likely gone, they’ll also swing a trade for someone like Brent Rooker or go after a mid-tier slugger to replace some of that lost power.

The bottom line is that this offseason will be one of the most active and exciting in recent memory for the Mets.

After coming so close to the World Series in 2024, they’ll pull out all the stops to make another deep run in 2025.

Karl-Anthony Towns’ trade to the New York Knicks was a big surprise to everyone, including him.

After spending nine seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, he only found out about the trade minutes before it became public.

With big names like Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo also involved in the deal, this move will affect both the Knicks and the Timberwolves.

So, what exactly went down in this trade, and what does it mean for both teams? Let’s find out.

Full Story of Karl-Anthony Towns’ Trade to the Knicks

Karl-Anthony Towns, a star player who spent his entire career with the Minnesota Timberwolves, was traded to the New York Knicks in a surprising deal that shook the basketball world.

Towns shared that he found out about the trade just four minutes before NBA reporter Shams Charania posted it on social media.

He revealed this during an interview on “The Roommates Show,” hosted by Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart.

On September 27 at 10:30 p.m., Towns received the news from Timberwolves president Tim Connelly, who personally came to Towns’ home to inform him.

Towns described the moment, saying, “By the time the shock wore off, Shams had already tweeted.”

How Towns Found Out About the Trade

The way Towns learned about his trade was different from the usual process.

Instead of hearing the news from the media, Timberwolves president Tim Connelly came to Towns’ house to tell him in person.

Three of Towns’ friends and his father were also present when Connelly shared the news.

But Towns appreciated how the Timberwolves handled it, saying, “It’s a tough situation, but the way he did it deserves respect.”

Later on, Tim Connelly admitted at a press event that trading Towns wasn’t easy for the team.

“The whole idea of trading people I think is pretty gross and weird,” he said.

“We had to give up one of the best players to ever put on a Timberwolves jersey. As good of a player as he is, he’s a better guy, so New York got a heck of a player and a better person. He’ll be missed.”

What Both Teams Got

As expected, the trade didn’t just involve Karl-Anthony Towns.

In exchange for Towns, the Timberwolves received Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and a future first-round pick.

Randle and DiVincenzo bring toughness and depth to Minnesota’s lineup, which the team feels is important moving forward.

On top of that, the deal also included the Charlotte Hornets, making it a three-team trade.

Before the Knicks completed the trade, the Golden State Warriors had some interest in Towns, but their discussions with Minnesota didn’t lead to a deal.

The Warriors reportedly couldn’t offer enough to meet the Timberwolves’ demands.

Now, Towns is set to debut with the Knicks in their first game of the season against the Boston Celtics.

He’s also set to face his old team, the Timberwolves, twice this season—once in Minnesota on December 19 and then again at Madison Square Garden on January 17.

What NBA Experts Are Saying About the Trade

As you can imagine, opinions on the trade have been mixed.

Some NBA experts believe the Timberwolves won by getting two starters in Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, while others think Towns will be a game-changer for the Knicks.

Former NBA star Paul Pierce, known for his critical takes on the Knicks, said, “In all honesty, I think Minnesota won that trade because I love DiVincenzo. He is a dog.”

On the other hand, Kevin Garnett, another former player, feels that both teams got something valuable.

Garnett said, “I think New York having Karl-Anthony Towns in the East makes it a lot more interesting. It gives you that big sine Mitchell Robinson is out. They’re going to need a big that can dominate, that you can throw the ball to and score. Karl-Anthony Towns puts the Knicks in a different conversation now.”

As Towns prepares for his new chapter with the Knicks, all eyes will be on how he meshes with Jalen Brunson and the rest of the squad.

The Knicks’ hopes of contending in the East rest heavily on Towns’ ability to dominate the paint and form a powerful duo with Brunson.

When Anthony Rizzo broke two fingers at the end of the regular season, it looked like the Yankees would be without one of their star players for a while.

Most players would sit out for a few weeks to recover from such an injury.

But Rizzo? He came back in just 16 days. It’s a pretty amazing story of grit and determination.

Rizzo made his return during the American League Championship Series (ALCS), stepping back into the lineup as if he hadn’t been injured at all.

His return wasn’t just about playing the game—it was about showing how much he wanted to help his team and how hard he was willing to push himself for a chance at another World Series title.

How Rizzo Pushed Through Pain to Play in the ALCS

Rizzo suffered the injury on September 28, when he was hit by a pitch during the Yankees’ final regular-season series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

With two fractured fingers, he missed the AL Divisional Series (ALDS) against Kansas City.

Although he was hopeful of playing, Rizzo ultimately decided not to push himself, admitting that he wouldn’t be able to perform at his best.

As Yankees manager Aaron Boone explained, “It was more a little bit of his conviction and the trainers feeling like he was in a good spot.”

Rizzo’s return for the ALCS was driven by a combination of his own persistence and the confidence of the team’s medical staff.

He wore a special brace with extra padding to protect his injured hand during play but was still mindful of the pain.

Before Game 1, Rizzo knew that pain would be a factor, but he was determined to play through it for the team’s good.

He stated confidently, “The 50,000 people in the stands and the adrenaline and what’s at stake is going to outweigh any pain I’ll be feeling.”

His resolve would be put to the test.

Rizzo’s Performance in His First Game Back

In his first at-bat, Rizzo hit a single to center field, proving he could still be productive at the plate despite not having faced live pitching since his injury.

Later in the game, he drew a walk, helping the Yankees score during an important three-run inning.

On defense, Rizzo showed no signs of rust until the top of the eighth inning, when he failed to field a ground ball, leading to a run for Cleveland.

By the ninth inning, Boone decided it was best to pull Rizzo from the game, bringing in Oswaldo Cabrera at first base. Despite the switch, the Yankees held on for the win.

This led to some speculation—was it the injury? Was it something else?

Boone clarified afterward that Rizzo was just “kind of physically and emotionally spent there late in the game.”

It’s not surprising, considering he hadn’t played in weeks.

Rizzo himself seemed in good spirits afterward, telling reporters he expected some discomfort, but the atmosphere at Yankee Stadium would keep him going.

As for Boone, he was pleased with Rizzo’s overall performance, saying, “He was sharp, which was really good to see.”

But it was clear that they’d have to keep a close eye on him for future games.

The decision to play Rizzo paid off, and the Yankees were encouraged by his contributions on both sides of the ball.

Rizzo, known for his toughness, had already endured a fractured forearm earlier in the season, which kept him out for over two months.

Returning from injury has been a recurring theme in his 14-year career, but this time, the stakes were higher, with a potential World Series in sight.

Why the Yankees Chose to Play Rizzo Despite His Injury

The Yankees survived the ALDS without Rizzo by relying on players like Oswaldo Cabrera and Jon Berti to fill the void at first base.

Both performed well, but the Yankees valued Rizzo’s veteran leadership and experience, particularly in the postseason.

Rizzo is one of only two active Yankees who have won a World Series, a feat he accomplished with the Chicago Cubs in 2016.

His presence on the field is as important mentally as it is physically for a team aiming to go deep into October.

Boone was clear that Rizzo’s activation for the ALCS wasn’t just about numbers.

Rizzo’s ability to play through pain, combined with his experience, made him a critical piece for the Yankees.

At 35, Rizzo understands the fleeting nature of opportunities like these.

“The clock is only ticking on my age and getting older,” Rizzo said.

“You never know when you’re going to have an opportunity to play for a pennant again.”

As for his future, Rizzo has a $17 million team option for next season, with a $6 million buyout.

His postseason performance may influence whether the Yankees exercise that option, but for now, he focuses squarely on helping the team win another championship.

What’s Next for Rizzo and the Yankees in the ALCS?

With Game 1 in the books, the Yankees and Rizzo will monitor his hand closely.

He admitted that he’s still in some pain, and how he responds physically after the game will determine whether he can continue in the lineup.

Yet, his Game 1 performance suggests that, despite the injury, Rizzo is still capable of making significant contributions.

If Rizzo can maintain this level of play, his presence will be invaluable as the Yankees continue their quest for a World Series title.

His leadership, defensive skills and clutch hitting could be the difference-maker as the Yankees face the Cleveland Guardians in what promises to be a tough series.