The Foundation of Yoga Philosophy
Navigating Dualism and Non-Dualism in Yoga Philosophy: Shaping Your Practice and Teaching with Insight and Clarity - By Barbara Courtille
Reading time: 3 minutes
Yoga philosophy is a vast terrain, offering diverse perspectives on reality and our journey towards liberation. At its core, it provides us with frameworks to understand our existence and our relationship with the universe.
Two foundational concepts that shape many yogic traditions are dualism (dvaita) and non-dualism (advaita) Understanding these viewpoints can influence the way that you approach your practice and teaching.
- Dualism, or dvaita, as outlined in texts like the Yoga Sutras, perceives the universe as comprising two distinct realms: the material world (prakriti) and the spiritual realm (purusha.) Liberation, according to this perspective, comes from recognising the inherent separation between these realms and transcending the limitations of the body and mind. Practitioners of dualistic philosophies emphasise practices that still the fluctuations of the mind to achieve a state of transcendence.
- Non-dualism, or advaita, celebrates the unity and interconnectedness of all existence. It sees the individual as inseparable from the greater whole, understanding the self as part of universal consciousness. Non-dualistic philosophies, found in Tantra and Hatha Yoga, embrace the entirety of human experience, including the physical body and its sensations, as tools for spiritual growth and transformation. Rather than seeking to transcend the material world, practitioners of non-dualism seek to integrate all aspects of existence into their spiritual journey.
There are numerous variations and interpretations of these themes, each offering unique insights into the nature of reality and our place within it. There is no singular 'right path,' rather, you get to choose what resonates most deeply with your soul.
Understanding these foundational concepts can inform your approach to practice and teaching. Some find resonance in the disciplined practices of dualism, while others may be drawn to the inclusive and holistic approach of non-dualism.
Ultimately, it is through exploration and self-inquiry that we come to understand our own relationship with yoga philosophy and how it shapes our lives on and off the mat.
My intention in writing "Philosophy on the Mat" was to present yoga teachers with these different perspectives, providing the freedom to explore and find the perfect fit for individual journeys. My hope is that by offering a comprehensive overview of different traditions, you can  guide your students with greater wisdom and clarity.
As you continue on your journey of exploration, remember that the beauty of yoga lies in its diversity and its ability to meet each practitioner exactly where they are.
Embrace the richness of the philosophical traditions, and allow them to guide you towards a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.
Barbara Courtille
Barbara Courtille, author of "Philosophy on the Mat," is a Yoga Educator, Author, and Artist living on Cammeraygal land in Sydney, Australia.
With a yoga journey that began in the late 1980s, she has been a teacher, trainer, and mentor to many. Now, she supports teachers through her weekly blog "The Yoga Teachers Blog" and is currently writing her second book, "Buddhism for Yogis."
Barbara continues to deepen her spiritual connection through dedicated study and practice.
