“Often this very first sutra is read quickly or even disregarded, which is unfortunate since this sutra is placed first to set the tone.”
– Nischala Joy Devi, The Secret Power of Yoga
“Atha here means beginning the study of who we are, where we are, and how we can make incremental changes to our inner and outer self in order to be less involved with material objects and more in tune with how we feel and how our actions affect those around us.
Learning, practicing, and integrating the various aspects of yoga happens over a long period of time and requires patience and perseverance.”
– Nicolai Bachman, The Path of the Yoga Sutras
“According to Patanjali, Yoga is discipline. This is indicated by the very first sutra, wherein Patanjali explains that the discipline of yoga has been followed from time immemorial without interruption, maintaining its lineage.”
– B. K. S. Iyengar, Core of the Yoga Sutras
“Patanjali indicates that, while the subject matter is of ancient origin and he is not the source, he has studied and practiced it to an appropriate depth under his own teacher and is now competent to share his understanding….”
– TKV Desikachar, Reflections on Yoga Sutra-s of Patanjal
“…it is not mere philosophy that Patanjali is about to expound, but rather direct instruction on how to practice Yoga.”
-Sri Swami Satchidananda, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
“Not later, not soon: now. If we wish to understand the principles of Yoga, our minds can’t be bogged down in the past or fretting about the future. With all other concerns at least temporarily put aside, our minds are free to be completely in the moment.”
– Reverend Jaganath Carrera, Inside the Yoga Sutras
Responses to “1.1 And now, the teachings of yoga.”
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[…] somehow. It is the perfect moment to explore the first teaching of the Patanjali Yoga Sutra. Atha Yoga Anushasanam– Now the process of yoga is explained (PYS 1.1). The 196 sacred seeds of yoga wisdom open with an […]
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Over the past 10 years, I have continually found myself beginning the practice again after time away. Initially, I felt discouraged and embarrassed by what I saw as a lack of diligence. Now, I see each return as an opportunity to start anew with a fresh perspective. The time away has given me insights into the effects of letting the practice slip and the importance of returning to it persistently.
Why do you think it’s important to start the study of yoga with a clear and focused mind? How have you dealt with returning to your practice after a break? What insights have you gained from these experiences, and how can the principle of “beginning now” help you in both your yoga practice and personal growth?
Yoga Sutra Cards 
Over the past 10 years, I have continually found myself beginning the practice again after time away. Initially, I felt discouraged and embarrassed by what I saw as a lack of diligence. Now, I see each return as an opportunity to start anew with a fresh perspective. The time away has given me insights into the effects of letting the practice slip and the importance of returning to it persistently.
Why do you think it’s important to start the study of yoga with a clear and focused mind? How have you dealt with returning to your practice after a break? What insights have you gained from these experiences, and how can the principle of “beginning now” help you in both your yoga practice and personal growth?