Posts In: Patanjali

by Olivia Cecchettini

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Translation and Commentary by Sri Swami Satchidananda

Summary: Sutra in Sanskrit means “thread.” Each verse of the sutras is a thread in the tapestry of Raja Yoga, a yogic path of meditation and concentration. The Sutras of Pantanjali are at least 1,700 years old and contain ancient wisdom in yoga ethics, meditation, and physical postures. This compilation by Sri Swami Satchidananda not only includes the original Sanskrit alongside the translation, but also personal stories and advice shared from his own spiritual journey.

Why I Love It: Timing is everything. I picked up this book in the past and felt overwhelmed. My intuition knew that it wasn’t the right time yet, so I put it back on the shelf until some months later I began to read it one sutra at a time. I gave each one time to marinate in my thoughts. I really believe the quote, “when the student is ready, the teacher will appear.”

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali uses metaphors and examples that are easy to understand and applicable to a modern lifestyle. I love that the full depth of knowledge contained in each sutra is so accessible because knowledge is power. When we become as curious about our internal landscape as we are about the external world, we are limitless. This book offered me the tools to live a life of introspection, fulfillment, happiness, and peace. It raised and continues to raise my vibration.

Recommended For: Those seeking emotional intelligence, who want to find balance between mind, body and spirit. Understanding The Sutras may come easily, but applying the book’s teaching in your everyday life might be a much harder task. The spiritual methods may be simple, but there could be a lot of work that goes into embodying each step forward.

I’ve found that it’s not by reading that I actually grasp new teachings or new ways of being in the world; it is through experimenting. Practicing, failing, having devotion and patience, and fully participating in my own life is where the learning happens. Being alive and feeling alive can be two very different experiences. My hope is for all to experience the fullness of life.

Ciao,
Olivia

Olivia Cecchettini
Contributing Writer

Olivia’s yoga journey began in 2003. She is certified in Vinyasa, Hatha, and Aerial Yoga and holds a Masters degree in Spiritual Psychology. She believes the mind, body, soul connection is sacred and encourages her students explore and expand within their own bodies and consciousnesses.

Ever wondered how yoga teachers feel about their own yoga practice? Want some advice for beginners from an experienced practitioner? This month we’re showcasing the fabulous Carolina Moreira! She teaches a mixed level vinyasa flow class at Yoga One on Tuesdays at noon. Click here to see the online schedule, no reservations required for class.

1. What is your favorite style of yoga?

I love all the styles I’ve explored so far: Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, Ashtanga, Anusara and Forrest Yoga. Vinyasa Flow is still my favorite due to its beautiful synchronized dance between breath and movement.

2. What first attracted you to yoga when you began your practice?

I discovered yoga in 2008 with the intention to improve my physical fitness, strength and flexibility. However, I quickly found a powerful transformative effect through a daily practice, which brought me mental and emotional benefits beyond the physical aspects.

3. What is your favorite yoga pose right now?

I don’t have a favorite pose, however my body and mind feel stronger during and after heart openers, balancing poses and inversions. I do really enjoy urdhva dhanurasana, or full wheel.

4. What pose is still the most challenging?

Hip openers like pigeon are usually challenging postures for my body and mind due to my tight hips.

5. If you were an animal, you would be:

Although I wish I could fly like a bird, I believe dogs are the kind of animal I relate to the most. They are loving, caring, playful and loyal to their family, just like me!

6. Describe what yoga means in your life using just 6 words:

Transformational journey to your higher potential

7. What might your students be surprised to learn about you?

Perhaps the fact that I am a very “normal” average person: I love to party, I do sometimes eat red meat, sugar and drink coffee, and I can be very lazy with my yoga practice. The way I perceive my life is the way I see Yoga, an endless journey, which happens slowly, day by day, and requires practice, patience and discipline. It doesn’t happen overnight. This transformative path requires nothing more than awareness.

8. Do you have any words of wisdom or advice for new students?

Follow the words of wisdom from Patanjali! The Yoga Sutras from Patanjali are a collection of the eightfold path of Yoga, which acts as guidelines on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. These limbs serve as a prescription for moral and ethical conduct and self-discipline; they direct attention toward one’s health; and they help us to acknowledge the spiritual aspects of our nature.