THE YOGA OF THE YOGA SUTRAS
This course introduces students to the teachings of yoga as outlined by Maharishi Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. The yoga sutras are a collection of brief, pithy aphorisms that codify the fundamental principles of yoga practise and yoga philosophy. The yoga sutras are a collection of ancient texts that elucidate the guiding principles of yoga activities including asanas (yoga postures), pranayama (yogic breathwork), dhyana (meditation), etc. Ashtanga Yoga is one of the core tenets of the yoga sutras; it is an eight-part practise that emphasises a holistic approach to yoga’s tenets. The yoga sutras provide a thorough breakdown of the mind’s workings and instructions for calming an anxious one.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali have emerged as the definitive guide on yoga in recent decades. In fact, everything we do on the yoga mat has its origins in Patanjali’s writings. It is possible to greatly improve the standard of one’s yoga practise by adhering to the guidelines outlined in the yoga sutras. The yoga sutras, moreover, hold knowledge that is relevant off the mat as well as on it. For instance, we can learn how to effectively lead in the societies in which we find ourselves, how to exhibit excellence in action, how to cultivate higher values and virtues, and how to deal with the impulsive inclinations of the mind.