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Approximately 2,500 years ago, the Indian sage Patanjali gave us the yoga sutras. Compiled into four books or volumes, the sutras are a collection of aphorisms delving into the depths of the human experience, offering an inward path of truth, resolution, and liberation. Patanjali's sutras are considered to be the definitive reference for the yogic practice and lifestyle, and even today the profundity and insight contained in the work are inspiring to say the least.
Below are a few personal favorites. Trying to choose ‘favorites’ from such a sublime work of spiritual insight is of course daunting, so take this simply as a glimpse into the depths of Patanjali's wisdom.
Yoga is the process of ending the fluctuations in one’s consciousness.
Then, the seer abides in his or her true form.
Yoga occurs through dedicated practice without attachment.
The inner Teacher/God, unlimited by time, is the teacher of the ancients.
The expression of the inner Teacher/God is Om.
Intense spiritual practice, self study, and alignment with the Divine comprise the practice of action.
Cognitive absorbtion is perfected through alignment with the inner Teacher/God.
Yoga postures are stable and comfortable.
Yoga postures are balanced through right effort and blending with the Infinite.
Proper practice of yoga postures results in the end of affliction from dualities.