Atha Yoga Anushasanam
- “Atha Yoga Anushasanam” is a phrase from the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which is considered one of the most important texts in the practice of yoga. The phrase “Atha Yoga Anushasanam” translates to “Now, the practice of Yoga begins” in English.
- The Yoga Sutras are a collection of 196 aphorisms that describe the philosophy, practice, and principles of yoga. They were written by the Indian sage Patanjali around 400 CE, and have been studied and practiced by yogis and yoginis for centuries.
- The phrase “Atha Yoga Anushasanam” is the opening line of the Yoga Sutras, and it is considered by many to be one of the most important lines in the text. It signifies the beginning of the journey of self-discovery and transformation that is at the heart of the practice of yoga.
- The word “atha” is significant in this context because it represents a state of readiness or preparedness. It suggests that the practitioner is now ready to embark on the journey of yoga, and is open and receptive to the teachings and practices that will be presented.
- The word “anushasanam” refers to the guidance and instructions that will be given during the practice of yoga. It suggests that the practitioner will be led step-by-step through the process of yoga, and that the teachings will be clear, concise, and easy to understand.
- In essence, the phrase “Atha Yoga Anushasanam” represents the moment when the practitioner makes a conscious decision to begin the practice of yoga, and when they commit themselves to the process of self-discovery and transformation that is at the heart of this ancient and powerful practice.