Yogi is a gender-neutral name of Indian origin, meaning "Of The Yoga Practice." It refers to a practitioner of Yoga, meditation, and spiritual practices in Indian religions. The term traditionally denotes members of the Nath siddha tradition of Hinduism and encompasses both male yogis and female yoginis. In Hindu mythology, the god Shiva and the goddess Parvati are depicted as an emblematic yogi–yogini pair. A yogi or yogini aspires to ethical duties such as nonviolence, truthfulness, kindness, and moderation in diet. The name is associated with practitioners who have achieved spiritual insights and bodily immortality. It has a rich history of cultural contributions and resistance to persecution, with Nath yogis being respected and recognized in certain regions of India. The term yogi has been used in both reverence and as a pejorative term, reflecting the diversity of its cultural and historical significance.
Chen Chien Ming (Chinese: 陳健民; pinyin: Chén Jiànmín; 1906–1987), also known as Yogi C. M. Chen, was a Chinese hermit renowned for his spiritual journey and teachings. He resided in Kalimpong, India, from 1947 to 1972 before relocating to the United States, where he spent the rest of his life. Initially, Chen practiced Taoist life-extending exercises due to his fear of death, later transitioning to Buddhism. His quest for knowledge led him to Tibet, where he spent years living in a cave. Notably, Sangharakshita, a prominent Buddhist figure, considered Chen as one of his teachers and, alongside Khantipalo, assisted in compiling "Buddhist Meditation, Systematic and Practical." Despite being described as "eccentric" by some, Chen's influence and teachings left a lasting impact on those he encountered. His legacy continues to inspire spiritual seekers worldwide.
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