atha yoganusasanam
These are the most famous words in Yoga. With the first Sutra, Patanjali says that the subject matter is of ancient origin, but he has studied it to such a depth that he is qualified to share his understanding. This is a very important Sutra, as he says that Yoga is universal. There are no restrictions and is open to anyone. Religion, atheist, agnostic, caste, married, unmarried, gender, age – no bar.
Atha – Now, authority, prayer for both auspicious beginning and successful conclusion, cleansing process
Yoga – the subject being taught is Yoga
Anushasanam – I have learnt this from my teacher. Yoga is an experiential science or knowledge. It creates a lineage from teacher to student.
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