traditionally, what is the primary aim of this exercise?
The ultimate goal of Yoga is "Moksha" (liberation), although the exact form this takes depends on the philosophical or theological system with which it is conjugated.
Yoga
The ultimate goal of Yoga is "Moksha" (liberation), although the exact form this takes depends on the philosophical or theological system with which it is conjugated.

In the classical Astanga yoga system, the ultimate goal of yoga practice is to achieve the state of Samadhi and abide in that state as pure awareness.

who is believed to be the originator of yoga Ancient India
wiki:19654899
Yoga [SEP] Goals
The ultimate goal of Yoga is "Moksha" (liberation), although the exact form this takes depends on the philosophical or theological system with which it is conjugated. In the classical Astanga yoga system, the ultimate goal of yoga practice is to achieve the state of Samadhi and abide in that state as pure awareness. According to Jacobsen, Yoga has five principal traditional meanings: