अथ योगानुशासनम् ।

This is the first yoga sutra described by Maharshee (“Maha+Rishee”= Great Teacher) Patanjali.

Before starting to explain what the first yoga sutra means, it is important to know what the word sutra means and why it is important in our learning. The word “sutra” in Sanskrit means a thread or a string. In Indian literature it often explains a theorem or aphorism in a few precise words which could be principles of guiding life, rituals, or simply any field of knowledge. In the context of yoga sutra; Patanjali explains the yoga teachings as understood from Vedas (4 vedas explained in Hinduism are Yajurveda, Rugveda, Atharvaveda and Samveda) in precise, profound words to depict the eternal truth about Yoga that guides us beyond any religion, time or any bounds! The word “sutra” here means a string which ties the knowledge gained by the teacher, receiving student and the teachings.

The very first sutra says- “अथ योगानुशासनम् ।“ In simple English “Now yoga authoritative instructions of Yoga begins. The word “atha” means beginnings; is found in almost all Holy Scriptures. Patanjali explains that this is the beginning of a journey that starts by him learning the depths of yoga and being ready to share his understanding to his disciples who in turn can carry forward this knowledge to her/his disciples. “Anushasan” means the disciplined way of teaching/learning. As we are getting ready to start our Yoga teacher training; Patanjali reminds us that “NOW” you are ready to begin your formal education of Yoga. Here NOW is the most important word to remember. You need to be “in now” to practice yoga. Being in now will help to have complete focus on the task at hand either doing asana or receiving instructions; just give your 100% attention- so that you will be READY to let this formal education of Yoga to begin!