India, July 26 -- For many people, yoga begins with a mat and ends with a workout. It is often seen as a way to improve flexibility, build strength or ease stress. But according to yoga teachers and spiritual leaders, that is only one part of a much larger practice.

Ancient yogic traditions describe yoga as a path that includes breath, meditation, self-awareness and conscious living alongside physical postures. Experts say understanding these deeper roots can help people experience yoga beyond fitness.

Sadhguru, founder of the Isha Foundation, believes one of the biggest misconceptions about yoga is that it is simply a form of exercise.

"In the western part of the world, if you utter the word 'Yoga,' people think of impossible physical...