Glimpses of Raja Yoga
An Introduction to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
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9781930485075
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Shambhala Publications12/10/2004Pages: 128Size: 6 x 9ISBN: 9781930485075DetailsIn Glimpses of Raja Yoga, Vimala Thakar introduces the basic concepts of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras by focusing on a different sutra, or aphorism, in each of the twelve chapters. In her opening chapter, she presents the historical and cultural background of Patanjali’s Raja Yoga. Chapter 2 contains an eloquent invocation of the dimension of Silence—the meditative state that one enters with the stilling of the mind. Chapters 3–6 examine the ethical principles and observances (the yamas and niyamas) that form the foundation of a healthy spiritual practice. Here Vimala discusses the importance of ahimsa (non-violence) and satya (truthfulness), and offers a radical interpretation of brahmacarya based on her understanding of Sanskrit. Chapter 7 concerns the kleshas or causes of suffering such as avidya (ignorance) and asmita (egotism). Chapter 8 discriminates between dharana (meditation with deliberate focus) and dhyana (effortless meditation), and reflects Vimala’s own experience. Chapter 9 describes the relation of prakriti (matter) and purusha (spirit) according to Patanjali. Chapters 10–12 describe the ultimate goal of the yogic journey—the absolute freedom of samadhi.Author BioVimala Thakar (1921–2009) was an influential Indian philosopher, spiritual teacher, and activist. As a young woman, she traveled and lectured for the Land Gift Movement of Vinoba Bhave, an associate of Mahatma Gandhi. Her meetings with Jiddu Krishnamurti from 1956 to 1961 also had a profound impact on her life and teaching. From the 1960s to the 1980s, she taught meditation retreats in thirty-five countries. And between 1991 and 2009, she taught from her home in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.Praise"Despite yoga’s popularity, many students are unaware of the depth of its philosophy, its roots, and its applications. Vimala Thakar offers a remedy in Glimpses of Raja Yoga: An Introduction to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. With scrupulous attention to language, she presents a clear interpretation of yoga’s timeless principles in ways that inspire and encourage. A careful reading will provide a better understanding of the basic concepts of yoga philosophy and, more important, help you to live your understanding." —Judith Hanson Lasater, PhD, PT, author of 30 Essential Yoga Poses: For Beginning Students and Their Teachers
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