Ancient Scriptures from the Vedic Sages
The roots of yoga go far deeper than modern postures and wellness trends. They stem from a rich spiritual tradition anchored in the Vedas—the foundational texts of ancient Indian wisdom. From these emerged a lineage of scriptures that codified the philosophy and practices we now call Yoga.
These aren’t just books. They are living blueprints—transmitted through oral traditions, refined by sages, and preserved over millennia. If you want to understand the heart of Yoga, this is where you start.
Primary Scriptures
1. Yoga Vasishta (by Valmiki)
The Yoga Vasishta is an important philosophical text featuring a conversation between the sage Vasishta and the young prince Rama. It combines concepts from Advaita Vedanta and Yoga, discussing themes like consciousness, illusion, detachment, and liberation through various stories. While it can be challenging and thought-provoking, it offers valuable insights for those seeking deep understanding.
2. Bhagavad Gita (by Vyasa)
A cornerstone of Indian philosophy, the Gita is a spiritual battlefield conversation between Krishna and Arjuna. It delivers timeless teachings on Karma Yoga (action), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), and Jnana Yoga (knowledge). The Gita doesn’t preach renunciation—it calls for purposeful, ethical living, aligned with your deeper dharma.
3. Patanjali Yoga Sutras (by Patanjali)
The Eightfold Path (Ashtanga Yoga) includes Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. Patanjali summarized complex yogic ideas into 196 short statements about the mind, discipline, and spiritual freedom. It is clear, concise, and essential.
Classical Texts of Hatha Yoga
1. Hatha Yoga Pradipika (by Swatmarama)
Written as a manual for serious practice, the Pradipika outlines the physical, energetic, and mental dimensions of yoga. Four limbs (Chaturanga) are emphasized: Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, and Samadhi. It moves the conversation from pure philosophy to embodied experience.
2. Gheranda Samhita (by Gheranda)
This is a seven-limbed (Saptanga) system emphasizing Ghata Shuddhi—the purification of the body as a vessel. Structured like a training manual, it covers kriyas, asanas, mudras, pratyahara, pranayama, dhyana, and samadhi. Practical and systematic, it’s for those who want to train body and mind as one.
3. Shiva Samhita (Author unknown)
An enigmatic text merging Hatha and Tantra, the Shiva Samhita discusses nadis, chakras, and the awakening of kundalini energy. It’s less structured, more mystical—an invitation into the alchemical nature of the yogic body.
Modern Texts
Yoga Ratnavalli (by Srinivasa)
One of the lesser-known gems of the 17th century, the Yoga Ratnavalli is an important link in the yogic lineage. It synthesizes earlier teachings and offers a unique glimpse into how classical yoga evolved over time. A bridge between ancient rigour and emerging practice traditions.
The Mahāvākyas: Great Sayings of the Upanishads
At the heart of all these texts lie the Mahāvākyas—the great declarations that distill the core of Vedic philosophy:
- Tat Tvam Asi – “You are That”
- Aham Brahmasmi – “I am Brahman”
- Prajnanam Brahma – “Consciousness is Brahman”
- Ayam Atma Brahma – “This Self is Brahman”
myYoga | Vashistha 