More than a Physical Practice

Have you ever wondered what makes yoga more than just a physical practice? Asanas are important, there is no doubt about that. But, it's important to remember that the shapes that we take prepare us for the other ways we can sharpen our practice.

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Studying yogic philosophies is integral to helping us guide our practice. By studying the texts that have been around for thousands of years we are able to understand the mindset of those that have practiced before us. These studies also offer deeper insight into how yoga can transform our lives, both internally and externally.

When it comes to yogic philosophies, there are a few texts that I would strongly recommend:

-The Yoga Sutras of the Patanjali, allows us to take a deeper look at the way to go. It gives a specific guide to get us to the end goal of enlightenment. With emphasis on discipline, meditation, and mental clarity, it gives us a clear scaffolding of a way to go. Though it can be black and white in its approach it gives us a firm foundation to stand on.

-The Bhagavad Gita is a snapshot of a moment on the cusp of a great battle. Our hero is at a pivotal moment where he has to make a decision on how to go. Does he follow his Dharma and proceed into a battle that is sure to cause death and destruction? Or does he ignore his purpose?

-The Upanashads have a big focus on the nature of reality, truth (brahman) and self (atman) play a big part of these texts. Meditation and deep inquiry are at the root of self realisation and these texts begin to guide us on that path.

Understanding Ancient Texts for a Deeper Practice

These texts will introduce to you some of the terms you will hear repeated as you dive into this area of philosophy. The Eight Limbs of Yoga is a framework of how to find bliss, the first two describe external and internal ways to live your life. After that there are 5 more processes to attain that highest form of bliss. Following this path will ultimately lead you to a more purposeful life. Karma is your destiny or fate, the effect of a previous cause. If you believe in reincarnation the actions in this life will effect the lot in the next. Dharma is your life’s purpose, what you are meant to do. Living your dharma poorly will serve you better than living someone else's dharma well. Ahimsa or “non violence” is found within one of the 8 limbs of yoga. This word means “non-harming”, but more than not doing harm to others it emphasizes not doing harm to yourself. Moksha or the concept of self realisation is what all of these other definitions and practices are pushing us towards. It gets us out of the eternal loop of life and death.

Though these texts can be overwhelming at times, there are lots of supplementary guides that can help them to become more digestible to all students. It is my suggestion though that students of philosophy do a couple things. Find a group like minded yogis, people who want to gain and share information that they have. The discussion is where the magic happens, and where you find true understanding of these concepts. There are free/monetized book clubs that can help you along the way. You can also, always find training with a heavy emphasis in philosophy.

Happy Reading!