Introduction to Yoga Philosophy | Philosophy Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Yoga Philosophy Origins

• Vedic Foundation: Ancient hymns and rituals in Vedas introduce foundational yoga concepts.
• Philosophical Depth: Upanishads explore soul (Atman) and ultimate reality (Brahman).
• Spiritual Dialog: Bhagavad Gita discusses dharma, bhakti, and nature of reality.
• Systematic Path: Yoga Sutras of Patanjali outline the Eight Limbs of Yoga.

The Eightfold Path of Yoga

• Ethical Standards (Yama):
  • Non-violence (Ahimsa)
  • Truthfulness (Satya)
  • Non-stealing (Asteya)
  • Continence (Brahmacharya)
  • Non-possessiveness (Aparigraha)
• Self-Discipline (Niyama):
  • Cleanliness (Saucha)
  • Contentment (Santosha)
  • Spiritual austerity (Tapas)
  • Self-study (Svadhyaya)
  • Surrender to the divine (Ishvara pranidhana)
• Physical Postures (Asana): Prepares the body for meditation.
• Breath Control (Pranayama): Regulates energy through controlled breathing.
• Withdrawal of Senses (Pratyahara): Detaches from external distractions.
• Focused Concentration (Dharana): Concentrates on a single point.
• Meditative Absorption (Dhyana): Achieves unity of observer and observed.
• Ultimate Liberation (Samadhi): Attains superconsciousness and unity with universal consciousness.

Yogic Concepts and Teachings

• Karma: Law of cause and effect, every action has consequences.
• Dharma: Righteous duty and moral path.
• Samsara: Cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
• Moksha: Liberation from Samsara, ultimate goal of yoga.
• Chakras: Energy centers corresponding to different aspects of being.
• Gunas: Fundamental forces (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) constituting reality.

Yoga and Modern Science

• Neuroplasticity: Brain’s adaptability aligns with yoga's transformative power.
• Stress Reduction: Yoga’s mindfulness parallels modern stress reduction techniques.
• Quantum Physics: Yoga’s interconnectedness resonates with quantum physics’ non-duality.

Exploring Citta, Cittavrtti, Klesas, Samadhi, and Kaivalya

• Citta: Mind or consciousness, comprising manas, buddhi, and ahamkara.
• Cittavrtti: Fluctuations in consciousness, calmed through yoga practices.
• Klesas: Afflictions hindering realization, overcome through yoga, especially meditation.
• Samadhi: State of superconsciousness, merging individual consciousness with universal consciousness.
• Kaivalya: Ultimate liberation, freedom from the cycle of birth and death.

Conclusion

In summary, yoga's philosophy, rooted in ancient texts and spiritual dialogues, offers a profound path beyond physical postures. By embracing the teachings of Citta, Cittavrtti, Klesas, Samadhi, and Kaivalya, individuals can embark on a transformative journey toward self-awareness, inner peace, and ultimate liberation. The intersections of yoga with modern science further validate its holistic approach to well-being and spiritual evolution.