Yoga is not merely a collection of exercises or a religious system – it is the science of inner transformation, as precise as physics and as deep as the endless ocean. Yoga means awakening to one’s true nature.
The Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali are an ancient guidebook that offers not only philosophy but also practical steps on how to still the inner storms and experience profound peace. They explain why we suffer and how to be free of suffering. This text is like a map, leading us from the confusion of the mind toward clarity and liberation.
Patañjali did not invent yoga – he compiled the experiences of Siddhas and rishis and arranged them into four clear chapters:
The Yoga Sūtras begin directly: “Now begins the teaching of yoga.” This means yoga is not yesterday or tomorrow – it is to be experienced here and now.
And further:
“Yoga is the stilling of the fluctuations of consciousness.”
This single sūtra says it all: when the endless movement of thoughts, emotions, and perceptions comes to rest, our true self reveals itself – pure, changeless, and boundless awareness.
The path of yoga rests on two pillars:
When these two become strong within us, the restlessness of the mind dissolves, and samādhi – deep concentration and perfect peace – arises.
Why are the Yoga Sūtras important today? Because they were not written only for monks or hermits, but for everyone. Patañjali does not ask about your religion or demand an ascetic life – he gives practical tools to find inner clarity and freedom in the midst of everyday life.
As we study the sūtras, we discover they are not abstract doctrines but a living practice that touches our thoughts, emotions, and daily choices. They are like a mirror that shows us where we are caught in illusions, and at the same time, a gatekeeper that guides us into silence.
The Siddhas say:
“Truth always stands unchanged, regardless of passing shadows.”
This is what the Yoga Sūtras lead us to – the point where the shadows fade, and we experience our true essence.
It is an invitation to awaken. Not to believe blindly, but to experience directly. Not only to read, but to practice. In this way, the ancient words come alive within us and open the doorway to inner freedom.
_________________
Study of Patañjali’s Yoga Sūtras at Lilleoru
At Lilleoru, the study of Patañjali’s Yoga Sūtras takes place monthly, progressing step by step through the text, delving into the meaning and practice of each sūtra.
Participation is possible onsite at Lilleoru or online via live stream, and newcomers are welcome to join at any time.
The teachings and practices are shared by Ingvar Villido Ishwaranand, whose explanations and guided exercises help this ancient text to be not only understood but also directly experienced.
Time: once a month, on Saturdays, 19:00–20:30 (Lilleoru Great Hall and online)
Languages: Estonian with simultaneous English translation
Replay: available for one month, until the next session
Session dates 2025:
13.09.2025
11.10.2025
08.11.2025
13.12.2025