The Importance and Philosophy of Yoga Sutra
Introduction
Welcome to the Interactive Knowledge Exchange podcast series, organised by the Dwarkadhish Holistic Centre in collaboration with the Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems at NIT Calicut. I am your host, Dhwani Shah, and today, we have the distinguished pleasure of introducing Acharya Prashant Jakhmola.
Acharya Prashant, born into a Brahmin family, is a distinguished yoga instructor based in Rishikesh. With a graduate degree in Biology and a Master’s in Yoga Science, he is currently engaged in advanced research. His extensive training includes prestigious institutions such as the Sivananda Yoga Ashram, and Kailash Ashram at Rishikesh, Bihar School of Yoga, and Uttarakhand Sanskriti University, where he studied Vedic scriptures and Vedanta.
Acharya Prashant’s early immersion in yoga has led to profound spiritual growth and a deep understanding of the intricate connection between anatomy, the mind, and emotions. He has shared his expertise globally through classes, workshops, teacher training programs, and online courses like Breath Detox and Pranic Purification.
As the founder of Yoga Vidya School, he is dedicated to promoting authentic yoga knowledge and fostering a community of disciplined yogis. Today, we are honoured to have him discuss “The Importance and Philosophy of Yoga Sutra,” sharing his invaluable insights and experiences.
Topic Covered:
- Acharya Prashant, can you elaborate on your early journey into yoga and how it shaped your spiritual growth?
- How did your academic background in Biology and Yoga Science influence your understanding of the connection between anatomy, the mind, and emotions?
- Could you share some key insights from your time studying Vedic scriptures and Vedanta at the Bihar School of Yoga?
- What motivated you to establish the Yoga Vidya School in Rishikesh, and what are its core principles?
- In your opinion, what is the significance of the Yoga Sutra in contemporary yoga practice?
- How do the teachings of the Yoga Sutra align with modern scientific understanding of the mind and body?
- Can you discuss the importance of maintaining the purity of yoga traditions in today’s rapidly evolving world?
- What are some common misconceptions about yoga that you encounter in your teachings, and how do you address them?
- How do your online courses, such as Breath Detox and Pranic Purification, integrate the principles of the Yoga Sutra?
- Finally, could you provide some practical advice for individuals looking to deepen their understanding and practice of yoga through the philosophy of the Yoga Sutra?
