The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Exactly as described and just what my wife needed for her class

So wise, and easy to read. If you really are into yoga like me, this is a must have.

Clearly one of my favorite books on spirituality since it breaks down each aspect of the process to self-realization.

The book is great unfortunately not for me I read the introduction and the first chapter in the book and decided it was not for me. The book is great just not my personal preference.

I’ve meditated for over 50 years and had some questions. My brother is a Hindu monk who studied in India. He recommended this book, keep reading it and it will have enlightenment for me.

It was written by one of the greatest yogis of all time - the Sage Patanjali. He compiled together various yoga and meditation practices into a manual that is easy to understand.In total, it comprises around 196 short "Threads" (Sutras) or verses or aphorisms. These were originally written in the language of the ancient yogis, Sanskrit.These verses are divided into four chapters named Samadhi, Sadhana, Vibhuti, and Kaivalya. The author has diligently presented them in three ways. First is the verse in Sanskrit, written in ancient Indian characters. This is followed by the verse in English letters. This is followed by a word for word English translation. Lastly, the author elaborates on the verses.Following is a synopsis of each chapter.Samadhi. This refers to a state of pure bliss wherein one unites with the Supreme. Samadhi is the root to the Supreme. But the root to Samadhi is by quieting the mind. Hence, Patanjali begins with the definition of yoga: yogash-chitta-vrutti-nirodhaḥ which translates as "Yoga is the cessation of mental modifications." (Mental modifications refers to thoughts - explicit and subconscious.)Sadhana. This word means "practice" or "training." Patanjali describes Ashtanga Yoga which is a yoga practice and lifestyle that consists of eight facets or "limbs." He outlines the various procedures and requisites.Vibhuti. This word means "supernormal power" (or psi). Patanjali describes the extraordinary powers that arise through the disciplined practice of yoga and meditation. These powers include clairvoyance, telekinesis, and omniscience. He explains that they are not the real fruits of yoga, but only a byproduct. The real fruit is what follows.Kaivalya. Literally translated, it means "oneness", but it refers to spiritual liberation and blissful union with the Supreme.In short, here are the benefits of yoga and meditation: good health, supernormal powers, and blissful tranquility.Medical science has already proven the healthy rewards for one's mind and body. However, do supernormal powers really arise? Where is the evidence? The topic is not covered in this book.But new studies of several ancient yoga texts show that ancient yogis appeared to have extraordinary knowledge of our world. These findings comprise powerful evidence that the claims of Patanjali are not nonsense. Those who practice yoga and meditation certainly do achieve some powers of psi.Full disclosure: I'm a peer-reviewed researcher on connections between ancient yoga and modern scientific discoveries, as well as between ancient yoga and the Bible. ~ Sanjay C Patel, SanjayCPatel.com

Great read if you are a yogi who wants to learn the philosophy of pantenjali!

Its good