by Vaishali Iyer The eight limbs of yoga described in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras are often taught as a step-by-step ascent, or a process of deepening interiorization which culminates with samadhi in formal sitting meditation. Many times we approach this framework sequentially, beginning with our action in the world, moving through asana and pranayama and only … Continue reading Dharana & Dhyana: A Somatic Perspective
by Vaishali Iyer This month I’m co-teaching a course on Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. In preparation, I’ve been exploring some of the text’s key themes in my regular weekly classes. I’ve taught about staying focused and stilling the mind through somatic awareness (citta vritti nirodha); learning to honour the truth (satya) of your body and your … Continue reading Practising with Integrity: Thoughts on Sthira-Sukham Asanam
by Charu Ramesh There are many myths surrounding the birth of the sage Patanjali. In one of the myths, his mother was a skilled yogini who desired a son to whom she could pass on her wisdom and knowledge. One morning she was praying at the river, with her hands placed in anjali mudra filled … Continue reading Lessons from Patanjali: Receiving the Divine Offering
