An Introduction to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
श्री गुरुभ्यो नमः
Disclaimer
With deep reverence and an open mind, I embark on this journey of reading and reflecting upon the Patanjali Yoga Sutras.
I begin with a humble disclaimer: I know nothing. I am here to learn, unlearn, and grow along the way.
On the why and how
My first encounter with the Patanjali Yoga Sutras was through a review copy of The Yoga Sutras for Children, authored by Roopa Pai. You can check my review below:
While I was aware that Yoga extends beyond asanas (poses), reading that book revealed this ancient wisdom’s profound depth and layered approaches.
More importantly, I realized that the Yoga Sutras are not just another text to be read—they are a guide to building a strong foundation for life and enhancing its quality.
However, my initial engagement with the book was tied to a deadline, and I couldn’t fully integrate its teachings into my daily life.
Yet, the essence of the Sutras seemed to plant a seed of yearning for a more disciplined and yogic way of life. Over time, that seed took root and began to grow.
Recently, as I embarked on a 21-day yoga challenge, I felt those teachings sprout, reminding me to act in the present and embrace the discipline the Sutras encourage.
So here I am, reading and reflecting upon the Yoga Sutras, journaling the actions these reflections inspire and observing how they gradually influence my life.
To stay true to this process, I intend to take it slow—without deadlines, expectations, or any need for validation. I am simply allowing myself to go with the flow.
Now that you know the purpose behind this post, let me begin with a brief introduction to the Yoga Sutras by Patanjali.
A Brief Introduction to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
For an ancient text over 2,000 years old, encapsulating the essence of life and remaining profoundly relevant even today, no introduction can truly do it justice. But here I am, starting with what little I know.
The Yoga Sutras by the sage Patanjali is a comprehensive text written nearly two millennia ago (imagine that!) that delves into both the theoretical and practical aspects of yoga. And yoga, as Patanjali explains, is far more than asanas (physical poses)—it is a profound journey that transcends our ordinary understanding. Yet, by following the discipline outlined in the Sutras, the seemingly incomprehensible becomes accessible. Fascinating, isn’t it?
Sage Patanjali presented these timeless teachings in the form of sutras—a Sanskrit word meaning “threads.” Each sutra is like a thread, weaving together the fabric of wisdom. Though compact and concise, each contains an ocean of meaning.
The Yoga Sutras comprise 195 Sutras, divided into four sections, or Padas (quarters), which together form the whole of this remarkable text:
- Samadhi Pada
- Sadhana Pada
- Vibhuti Pada
- Kaivalya Pada
Here’s a brief overview of what each Pada encompasses, based on my understanding so far:
- Samadhi Pada: The foundation of Yoga. This section provides a theoretical introduction to the essence of yoga, explaining the what and why. It sets the stage for what to expect and where we are headed.
- Sadhana Pada: The practice of Yoga. This is the how—the actionable steps to progress on the yogic path. While the first Pada outlines the goal, this section focuses on discipline and practice.
- Vibhuti Pada: The rewards of Yoga. This part highlights the benefits and transformations that arise from disciplined action and practice. The possibilities are vast—well beyond what we might initially imagine.
- Kaivalya Pada: The freedom of Yoga. This final section explores the ultimate liberation of the self. It speaks of multi-dimensional freedom and promises eternal bliss.
So, as we see, there’s a long journey ahead, filled with depth and discovery. Let us surrender to the wisdom of the Universe, which has brought us together in this moment, and trust it to guide us with grace toward where we are meant to be.
In the next post, we’ll delve into the first sutra. Let the journey begin!
ॐ सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः ।
सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु मा कश्चित् दुःखभाग्भवेत् ॥
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः॥
May all sentient beings be at peace; may no one suffer from illness.
May all see what is auspicious; may no one suffer.
Om peace, peace, peace.
