The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is the classic Hindu text on the spiritual practice of yoga. Written more than 2,000 years ago, these teachings provide a rich, contemplative understanding of yoga and philosophy. In this book, best-selling author and shaman Alberto Villoldo reveals how these teachings are available to us at all times-without gurus, temples, or decades of study. Villoldo's own fieldwork with the high shamans of the Americas has shown that the goals of shamanism and yoga are identical, and (...) he demonstrates the parallels in their practices. In a series of short, inspirational passages from the Sutras, the reader is led toward self-realization and enlightenment in its simplest form. In this treasured book, Villoldo brings to life the spiritual teachings of yoga in a pure and practical way--stripped of dogma and brimming with poetry and spirit."--Page 4 of cover. (shrink)

Introduction: Jai Mata Di (praise the mother goddess) -- Sutra 1: Samadhi, or yogic ecstasy -- Sutra 2: realization, or the practice of yoga -- Sutra 3: the Siddhis, or the magical powers -- Sutra 4: absolute freedom.