Welcome to Basics in Yoga Philosophy!

Thank you so very much for joining this self-paced online course which aims to bridge various concepts related to yoga philosophy. This work was written and presented by me, Brandi Burge LPN, e-RYT500, RPYT. I've spent nearly ten years practicing and teaching yoga, and over time have taken various trainings including 200- and 300-hour and prenatal yoga teacher trainings, yin and mindfulness training, pranayama and meditation courses, and Yoga Nidra and restorative yoga training, among others.

My goal through this work is to bring you an introduction to the foundational philosophies or schools of thought related to yoga that will provide an understanding of the overarching intent and definition behind yoga from various perspectives. Information is sourced from various areas and integrated and written by me, and references will be noted at the end of the work. There are limits to what I present, as I have only been exposed to a limited amount of literature in comparison to what is available, and my perspective is clouded by a western and English-only perspective. Keep your mind open with what is presented and always question what you are reading. I do not present the following as pure fact but rather a starting point for deepening the general context and understanding around the basics of yoga philosophy. I encourage you to explore these perspectives both within this work and moving forward on your own terms, building on and integrating what lands while holding space for what may not. At any time, the content may change or be improved on as I continue to expand my understanding of these concepts through ongoing contemplation and integration of personal practice.

This work will explore yogic concepts and influences and is guided by texts including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavad Gita. Various schools of thought, including Ayurveda, Taoism, and modern science will be integrated in an understandable and applicable way, with the aim to make the heart of yoga more accessible. A comprehensive view of various spiritual influences will provide you with a perspective of yoga that has the potential to grow and be applicable to your life both on and off the mat.

Respecting Language and Culture

It is well understood that Sanskrit terms such as those found in the Sutras or the Bhagavad Gita are not easily translated into English. Keep this in mind throughout and know that, as much as we may think we understand these translations, we may never truly grasp their true nature with the intellect alone. That is why we must take into account the author’s commentaries where available, as they provide the most complete explanation for a given passage as opposed to a direct translation of the words in the passage.

Take karma for example. In Sanskrit, it describes an in-depth and complicated concept that is not easily translated. The best description is "action"; however, this leaves room for much individual interpretation.

For ease of understanding through this work, English translations and related sources will be provided. We must note that the heart of yoga overcomes this apparent lack of solid translation. As stated in the Katha Upanishad:

“This Self cannot be known through much study, nor through the intellect, nor through much hearing (of teachings). It can be known by the Self alone that the aspirant seeks to know; the Self alone reveals its own nature to the seeker who is seeking it.” Katha Upanishad

True understanding comes through experience. This passage emphasizes the need for the student to take an active role in their progression towards samadhi through active participation and placing less need on intellectualizing the teachings that guide us there.

Putting it All Together

These sections provide an opportunity for you to contemplate yoga teachings, systems of thought, and/or connected philosophies via a journaling prompt. As you move through this work, feel free to journal any thoughts that may arise, other or complementary ideas, or simply contemplate and move on. Do what best serves you.