Yoga: Philosophy and Lifestyle

What is yoga if it does not unite the inner and outer worlds? What is practice if it does not lead to liberation? Yoga, in its timeless essence, is not merely a series of postures or physical exercises—it is a comprehensive philosophy that permeates every aspect of life. Rooted in the ancient wisdom of the Upanishads and the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali, yoga offers a path that transcends the dualities of body and mind, guiding the seeker toward an integrated experience of self-realization and universal harmony.

In its philosophical dimensions, yoga articulates a vision of existence where the individual soul (jīva) is intrinsically linked to the universal spirit (Brahman). It teaches that through disciplined practice (abhyāsa) and detached contemplation (vairāgya), one can purify the mind and dissolve the boundaries between the self and the cosmos. As a lifestyle, yoga embodies principles of ethical conduct, mindfulness, and balance, transforming everyday activities into sacred rituals. Its teachings extend beyond the mat—encompassing diet, social conduct, and a deep respect for nature and all living beings.

This section of the Journal of Sanātana Dharma invites a rigorous exploration of yoga as both a philosophical framework and a practical lifestyle. How do the classical texts delineate the eightfold path (aṣṭāṅga yoga) as a blueprint for holistic well-being? In what ways does yoga challenge modern materialistic paradigms by offering a vision rooted in spiritual evolution and ethical living? How can the integrative practices of meditation, pranayama, and asana serve as catalysts for personal and societal transformation in our contemporary world?

We welcome contributions on:

  • The foundational texts of yoga philosophy, including the Yoga Sūtras, Bhagavad Gītā, and Upanishadic insights
  • Comparative analyses of yoga’s ethical precepts (yamas and niyamas) with contemporary lifestyle practices
  • The transformative impact of yoga on mental health, well-being, and social harmony
  • Interdisciplinary studies linking yoga with modern neuroscience, psychology, and holistic medicine
  • The evolution of yoga from ancient practice to a global phenomenon, and its adaptation in modern contexts
  • The integration of yoga principles in education, community development, and environmental sustainability
  • The role of meditation and mindfulness as tools for personal awakening and collective resilience
  • Explorations of how yoga, as a lifestyle, challenges Western notions of success, productivity, and individuality
  • Critical essays on the commercialization of yoga and pathways for reclaiming its sacred essence
  • The interplay between physical practice and spiritual inquiry in cultivating a balanced, ethical, and enlightened way of life

Yoga is not confined to a set of physical techniques—it is a dynamic, living tradition that calls for a continual reassessment of what it means to be human. It is a journey from the finite to the infinite, from the chaos of the external world to the serene clarity of inner truth. We invite scholarly articles, reflective essays, and interdisciplinary research that delve into yoga’s dual legacy as both a rigorous philosophical system and a transformative way of living—a legacy that remains as relevant today as it was in the ancient corridors of wisdom.