Complete Guide to Yoga: Philosophy, Texts and Practice
The word Yoga comes from the root yuj, "to yoke or join." It is used to suggest the union of the individual self (atman). with the Highest Self (Brahman). Yoga is the means to integrate the body with the mind and the lower self with the higher self.
Through yoga, one can achieve perfection of the physical, mental and lower selves and prepare ones journey into higher consciousness through the awakening of the Kundalini and other latent powers.
Purely as a physical exercise, yoga can aid us in keeping our bodies and minds in perfect balance and at peace.
Yoga is the most important contribution of Hinduism to the modern world.
This comprehensive resource page serves as your complete gateway to understanding yoga in its authentic spiritual context, far beyond mere physical exercise, covering theory, history, philosophy, practice methods, and classical texts. The collection is organized into major thematic sections.
Essays on Yoga cover fundamental topics including the purpose of yoga in today's world, the five Yamas (ethical restraints: Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacarya, Aparigraha), the five Niyamas (observances), their significance in spiritual life, the four parts of yoga, devotion and meditation practices, history of yoga with references in the Upanishads, Ashtanga Yoga of Patanjali, the meaning and purpose of yoga, spiritual approaches to stress, advanced consciousness healing techniques, history and benefits of yoga practice, yoga exercises and techniques, yoga's best kept secrets, chapter-by-chapter summaries of the Yoga Sutras, and detailed explanations of key concepts like Brahmacarya (celibacy), Chakras (energy centers), Ahimsa (non-violence), and more.
Texts and Translations offer multiple versions of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras including translations by Octavian Sarbatoare, Charles Johnston, and Bon Giovanni; the abridged Yoga Vashishta; The Great Systems of Yoga by Ernest Wood; Relax With Yoga covering history, brain and nervous system control, eight principles of Raja Yoga, relaxation techniques, correct postures, breathing exercises, diet, and sexual practices; essays on yoga philosophy; A Series of Lessons in Raja Yoga by Yogi Ramacharaka; Introduction to Yoga by Annie Besant; and A History of Indian Philosophy.
Video Resources include original content on traditional definitions of yoga, Karma Yoga in service of Hinduism, the nature of Citta according to Yoga Sutras, success principles from the Yoga Sutra, the original and modern meanings of yoga, yoga's primordial roots, and the origins and history of yoga. Audio Resources provide teachings on what is Citta, the meaning and significance of Nirvana, finding truth, and understanding the natural state of mind.
The page emphasizes that yoga is Hinduism's most important contribution to the modern world and serves as a sure way to hasten evolutionary progress into higher states of transcendental consciousness through awakening Kundalini and latent powers. It notes that while these resources provide theoretical understanding, actual yoga practice should only be undertaken under the guidance of a skilled, experienced practitioner.
This comprehensive collection is essential for serious yoga students seeking authentic traditional knowledge beyond modern fitness approaches, spiritual practitioners exploring deeper dimensions of yoga sadhana, scholars researching yoga's philosophical foundations, teachers wanting to understand classical yoga systems, and anyone interested in yoga as a complete spiritual science leading to self-realization, liberation, and union with the divine. Whether you are beginning your study of yoga philosophy or deepening your understanding of its timeless wisdom and transformative practices, this resource provides structured access to authoritative classical texts, expert commentary, and practical guidance rooted in the ancient Vedic tradition.